SUCI Spearheads Mass Protest Against CNG-PNG Price Hike in Resource-Rich Tripura

AGARTALA, November 21, 2024 - The Socialist Unity Centre of India (SUCI) mobilized hundreds of concerned citizens today at Battala, leading a powerful protest against what they termed as an "unjustified" increase in CNG and PNG prices. The demonstration highlighted the growing public discontent over energy costs in a state known for its natural gas abundance.

The price hike, effective from November 20th, has pushed CNG rates to a staggering ₹75.91 per kg in West Tripura, drawing sharp criticism from SUCI activists who question the rationale behind such increases in a state blessed with abundant natural gas reserves.

"It's a cruel irony that Tripura's citizens are forced to pay premium prices for their own natural resource," declared the SUCI spokesperson during the rally. The organization emphasized how the price hike disproportionately affects middle and lower-income families who switched to PNG for domestic use, believing it would be a more economical option.

The SUCI highlighted multiple impacts across sectors:

- Domestic consumers facing steeper cooking gas bills

- Auto-rickshaw and taxi operators struggling with increased fuel costs

- Small businesses grappling with rising operational expenses

- Industrial units facing challenges in maintaining production costs

Local auto-rickshaw drivers participating in the SUCI protest expressed particular concern, noting that the CNG price hike will force them to either increase fares or absorb losses, potentially affecting their daily survival. "We switched to CNG believing it would help us save money, but these constant price hikes are making it difficult to make ends meet," said a driver at the protest.

The SUCI has put forth clear demands:

- Immediate rollback of the price increase

- Transparent explanation of pricing mechanisms

- Implementation of state subsidies for local gas consumers

- Long-term pricing policy that benefits local residents

The organization emphasized that Tripura's natural gas resources should primarily benefit its citizens, arguing for significantly lower local consumption rates compared to national prices, given the state's position as a key gas producer.

SUCI leaders have warned of intensified protests if authorities fail to address these concerns, emphasizing their commitment to continue the movement until relief is provided to the common people.