AAP Protests Over Commercial LPG Price Hike in Ludhiana, Demonstrators Carry Cylinders Around Necks

May 2, 2026

Ludhiana: Amidst the continuously rising inflation in the country and specifically the recent hike in the prices of commercial gas cylinders Punjab’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) today launched a frontal attack against the BJP-led central government. A massive protest demonstration was staged by AAP leaders and workers at Ghanta Ghar Chowk in Ludhiana. During the event, workers raised vociferous slogans, labeling the central government’s economic policies as anti-people.

A Unique Protest: Empty Cylinders Worn Around Necks

Today’s protest became a major talking point due to its unique nature. AAP workers and office-bearers expressed their outrage symbolically by hanging empty gas cylinders around their necks. The protesters argued that by hiking the prices of commercial cylinders, the central government has broken the backs of small business owners, ‘dhaba’ operators and confectioners (‘halwais’). They warned that, due to this escalating inflation, food is increasingly slipping out of the reach of the common man.

Slogans Raised Loudly Against the BJP Government

The atmosphere at Ghanta Ghar Chowk remained highly charged throughout the protest. AAP workers raised slogans such as “Down with the BJP government!” and “Central government, come to your senses!” Party leaders alleged that while the public is grappling with unemployment and economic hardship on one hand, the central government is, on the other, imposing an additional burden on the people by constantly hiking oil and gas prices.

Presence of Senior Leaders and MLAs

Almost all of Ludhiana’s Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), along with a large number of AAP workers, were present at this protest demonstration. The MLAs collectively stated that the rising cost of commercial cylinders would inevitably drive up the prices of all commodities in the market, thereby directly impacting the pockets of the common people. They demanded that the price hikes be rolled back immediately, warning that failure to do so would result in the agitation being further intensified.

Widespread Outrage in the Business Community

Speaking to the media, the protesters pointed out that Ludhiana is an industrial city home to thousands of small and large food outlets and commercial units that rely heavily on commercial gas cylinders. They warned that this sudden surge in prices has pushed their businesses to the brink of collapse.