Workers Party wants cut in gas-oil prices

The Workers Party of Bangladesh yesterday demanded a reduction in the prices of oil and gas in keeping with the price drop on the international market.

Fazle Hossain Badsha, general secretary of the party, said the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission increased the price without showing any acceptable ground.

A key component of the Awami League led-14-party alliance, the party placed a seven-point demand at a press conference at its headquarters in the capital over the recent oil-gas price hike.

Reading out a written statement, Badsha criticised the government because it did not consult with its partners in the 14-party alliance about the price hike.

The party threatened to launch a tougher movement if their demand is not met.

Badsha said the prices were increased when most people demanded a reduction because of the price fall on the international market. "This is very unfortunate," he said.

Within 10 days of raising the gas prices, the road transport and bridges ministry hiked the fare of CNG-run auto-rickshaws and buses, he said, adding that the sudden fare hike was also unexpected to everyone.

He said the government decision went in favour of the owners, not the passengers.

Other demands include proper gas supply to industrial units and encouragement of the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in residences.