AASU intensifies statewide agitation over price rise, burns Union Minister’s effigy in Tinsukia and Morigaon

The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) intensified its statewide agitation against rising prices of fuel and essential commodities by staging protests in different parts of Assam, including Tinsukia and Morigaon, where members burnt effigies of Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

In Assam’s commercial town of Tinsukia, AASU members staged a strong protest against rising prices of fuel products, life-saving medicines and essential commodities, alleging that inflation was placing an increasing burden on ordinary citizens. Protesters raised slogans against the government and demanded immediate measures to control inflation and provide relief to the public.

The demonstration in Tinsukia later turned tense as AASU members and police personnel were involved in a heated scuffle, leading to a brief period of unrest at the protest site.

The agitation also spread to Morigaon, where AASU members burnt an effigy of Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, demanding a reduction in petrol and diesel prices. Protesters expressed concern over increasing fuel costs and their impact on household expenses and everyday life.

Speaking during the Morigaon protest, AASU central organising secretary Rupjyoti Medhi launched a sharp attack on the NDA government, alleging that people had voted the government to power with trust and expectations but were now being asked to adopt austerity measures amid rising inflation.

He also criticised the functioning of the supply department, claiming that people have almost forgotten whether the department remains active due to its perceived failure to address issues related to rising prices and essential commodities.

The protests come amid growing concern over rising fuel costs, with petrol prices in Guwahati currently standing at around Rs 105.74 per litre, adding pressure on transportation expenses and household budgets. 

Higher fuel prices often have a cascading impact across sectors by increasing logistics and freight costs, eventually contributing to price rises in vegetables, groceries, milk, medicines, consumer goods and other daily essentials.

Transport operators and small businesses also face increased operational expenses, adding to inflationary pressures and affecting consumers across both urban and rural areas. 

AASU has maintained that controlling inflation and reducing fuel prices should remain a priority to ease the burden on the public.