Ruling Samajwadi Party said that in order to generate resources to contest the coming lok Sabha elections, the Congress led UPA-II government was increasing the prices of petroleum products and domestic gas to benefit the industrialists.
SP spokesperson and state food and supply minister Rajendra Chaudhury said in a statement issued here on Sunday that the Congress always supported the industrialists because the later had supported them in
elections. He said the Congress may claim that its policies are in favour of people but the fact is the Congrss leadership has always worked against the people.
'' Petrol prices have been increased five times this year latest being the hike of Rs 2 per litre last night. Such
increase will create burden on the masses as it will hike the prices of essential commodities as well,'' he said.
Chaudhury said that now the Centre is likely to increase the price of gas. Indications are that the party may take a decision in a cabinet meeting on Thursday. The government suggests that hike was mandatory to protect flagging refineries.
'' As these corporate sector would donate funds generously the Congress is taking decision that could elp them," he said.