CPI announces statewide protest against rising prices of essential commodities

The Communist Party of India (CPI) has announced statewide protests on November 3, demanding measures to control the rising prices of essential commodities, including rice, pulses and sugar.
In a statement, CPI Tamil Nadu State Secretary M. Veerapandian said demonstrations would be held in front of Union and State government offices in all district headquarters across Tamil Nadu.
He alleged that prices of essential food items had increased sharply, placing a heavy burden on poor and middle-class families. According to the statement, rice prices have risen by up to 50 per cent, with some premium varieties selling at nearly Rs. 100 per kg. Ponni rice has crossed Rs. 90 per kg, while idli rice has reportedly reached Rs. 35 per kg.
Veerapandian also pointed out that sugar prices had increased from Rs. 48 to Rs. 72 per kg over the past two months. He attributed the rise partly to the diversion of sugarcane for ethanol production under the Union government’s 20 per cent ethanol-blending policy.
Prices of pulses and spices have also increased, with urad dal rising from Rs. 120 to Rs. 150 per kg and coriander from Rs. 160 to Rs. 250.
The CPI has urged the Union and State governments to intervene immediately, supply essential commodities through ration shops at subsidised rates and provide free rice, pulses and sugar to poor families.
The party’s State Executive Committee has appealed to the public to participate in the November 3 demonstrations.