‘Good Days’ Turn Bitter as Prices of Essentials Soar Across Assam

Even as the BJP-led “double-engine” government continues to sell dreams of Acche Din (Good Days), people across Assam are waking up to a different reality, one of soaring prices and shrinking household budgets. In yet another blow to the common man, the prices of essential commodities like mustard oil, eggs, potatoes, and onions have silently increased across the state.

This stealthy price hike has sparked concern and frustration among both consumers and local vendors, particularly in a time when the government appears more focused on eviction drives than addressing economic distress.

Mustard oil, a cooking staple in Assamese households, has seen a sharp increase of ₹10 to ₹15 per litre. Potatoes and onions are now costlier by ₹5 per kilogram each, while milk prices have risen by ₹2 to ₹5 per litre. The price of eggs has shot up by ₹15 to ₹20 per plate, further straining daily food expenses.

Speaking to reporters, a local grocery shopkeeper lamented, “Every brand of oil has become costlier by ₹10–15. Customers argue with us to sell cheaper, but what can we do? The prices have been increased by the companies and the government. Even we are suffering. People now prefer online grocery platforms, and we are losing business. If customers don’t come, how do we feed our families?”

Customers are feeling the squeeze too. “The prices of all essential items are going up, but our monthly income stays the same. We have no option but to buy them, even if it strains our budget,” said a homemaker in Guwahati.

The lack of any prior notice or explanation has only added to public outrage. With no formal announcement from the government, the silent hike has left people struggling to adjust their monthly budgets.

What’s stinging even more is the contradiction between the current reality and earlier promises. The BJP government, once vocal about controlling inflation and bringing prices down, now faces criticism for doing the opposite. “They promised relief, but instead, we’re being pushed to the edge. Was it all just lip service?” asked a concerned resident.

In a state where mustard oil is no longer just an essential but increasingly becoming a luxury, the silent price hikes are pushing everyday necessities out of reach for many low- and middle-income families.

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