Jammu: Raman Bhalla on Sunday expressed concern over rising inflation and increasing financial burden on households, alleging that recent policy decisions have adversely impacted the common people in Jammu and Kashmir.
Bhalla made these remarks while addressing a public meeting at Ward 49, Channi Rama Malik Market in Jammu as part of the Congress party’s grassroots outreach programme. The meeting was attended by a large number of local residents, who raised several civic and socio-economic concerns.
According to a party statement, residents highlighted issues including irregular water supply, poor sanitation, damaged roads, unemployment, rising prices, and inadequate healthcare and educational facilities.
Bhalla assured the gathering that these concerns would be taken up with the relevant authorities and stressed the importance of such outreach programmes in bridging the gap between the public and the administration.
Emphasising inclusive governance, Bhalla said that policies must address the challenges faced by all sections of society, including youth, women, labourers, traders, farmers, and marginalised communities.
He called for focused efforts on employment generation, strengthening public healthcare systems, improving educational infrastructure, and ensuring social security for vulnerable groups.
Highlighting the issue of inflation, Bhalla expressed concern over the recent hike in LPG cylinder prices, alleging that such decisions, taken after elections, reflect an “anti-people approach” of the BJP-led government.
“The common man is already struggling to make ends meet, and repeated price hikes are pushing families into deeper financial distress,” he said.
He added that the continuous rise in prices of essential commodities, fuel, and cooking gas has severely impacted middle-class households and economically weaker sections.
Bhalla noted that inflation has a compounded impact in Jammu and Kashmir, where many families depend on fixed incomes or limited employment opportunities. He said rising costs of food, transport, and domestic fuel are affecting both urban and rural populations.
Referring to concerns raised by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Bhalla alleged that the government tends to delay difficult economic decisions until after elections, thereby increasing the burden on citizens.
He urged the government to take immediate steps to control inflation, reduce LPG prices, and introduce relief measures for vulnerable sections.
Bhalla also called for a comprehensive policy approach to tackle unemployment, strengthen the public distribution system, and ensure affordable healthcare and education.
Reaffirming his commitment to public welfare, he said the Congress would continue to raise issues concerning the people at all appropriate forums.
The meeting concluded with an interactive session, with residents appreciating the outreach initiative and expressing hope for timely redressal of their grievances.
