The JVP charges the shortage of domestic gas cylinders in the market and the hike in Laugfs gas prices today, is a pre-planned move by the government.
Speaking at a media briefing today, former Parliamentarian Sunil Handunnetti said efforts to sell state assets to the private sector could also be behind the recent gas issue.
Handunnetti said the government cited that Letters of Credit could not be opened, dollar issues and liquidity behind the controversy surrounding Laugfs gas.
While claiming these issues have vanished, Handunnetti said the people have to suffer the consequences of the government’s decisions.
He noted that Litro gas will also request a price hike from the Consumer Affairs Authority, adding that the government has at present claimed that prices will not be allowed to be increased.
The former MP said Litro will then point to its losses and ask what should be done, adding that the government in a couple of days will allow Litro gas to increase prices claiming they had no other option.
He said the gas shortage was artificially created in order to obtain commissions and strengthen businesses.
Sunil Handunnetti also claimed that parents with children have been walking from shop to shop in search of milk powder packets with others carrying cylinders and standing in line to purchase gas.
He stated while the price of goods keeps rising people’s incomes remain the same claiming the cost of living is rising exponentially.
He charged the government of failing to address issues in the country and COVID-19 concerns and instead increasing prices of goods amidst a pandemic.
