Shiv Sena protests against inflation, highlights soaring prices of essential commodities

JAMMU,08-08-2023: Shiv Sena (UBT) Jammu and Kashmir unit staged a protest against the escalating prices of vegetables, fruits, and food items, compelling the attention of the government.

The protest, marked by participants donning garlands of vegetables and adorning a tomato crown, took place at Badi Brahmana, Sidco Chowk in Jammu.

Under the leadership of Manish Sahni, State President Shiv Sena, the protesting brandished placards bearing slogans such as “Citizens Struggle with Inflation, Government Remains Unconcerned,” “Waiting for Acche Din”,”Tomatoes at ₹250, Ginger at ₹320, Cauliflower at ₹100, Brinjal at ₹80, Bitter Gourd at ₹100,” to express their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs.

Sahni drew attention to the staggering rise of prices, emphasizing that the cost of essentials like wheat, pulses, and rice has surged by up to 30% over the past year. Even ordinary vegetables, once staples of common households, have vanished from the everyday plate due to relentless inflation. The prices of commonly used vegetables such as tomatoes, ginger, cauliflower, brinjal, garlic, and bitter gourd have skyrocketed, with even cumin seeds witnessing a fivefold increase. The household budgets of homemakers have been severely disrupted by these soaring prices, he added.

Sahni lamented the absence of a concrete strategy from the government to control inflation and stabilize food prices. Despite India being one of the largest producers of tomatoes after China, the skyrocketing tomato prices have left the public in distress.

He highlighted the paradox of Prime Minister Narendra Modi designating tomatoes, onions, and potatoes as priorities, yet the government’s inability to curb their soaring costs.

The protesters urged the government to address the pressing concerns of inflation and ensure affordable access to essential commodities for the general populace.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration, which is busy collecting revenue by installing smart, prepaid meters property tax etc., has proved completely unsuccessful in cracking down on black marketeers and providing relief to the public. Many leaders and workers including President Kamgar Wing Raj Singh, Vice President Shashipal & Mangu Ram, Rajesh Sharma, Neeraj, Jagbir Singh, Bishan Das, Santokh Devi, Pooja Devi, Meena Devi were present on this occasion.