Rail fare hike: CPI workers block rail tracks

The workers accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of burdening the common man

Communist Party of India (CPI) workers in Bhubaneswar blocked railway tracks armed with placards and slogans to protest against the government for its announcement to increase rail fare just ahead of the budget.

The workers protested at the Bhubaneswar railway station accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of burdening the common man.

"The way Modi said that the government is in favor of the common man but what they have done is totally against. Modi government is not doing what it is supposed to do and is unbalanced. The railway budget is supposed to come on June 25 but they have increased the fare before only. The CPI is against it and we will continue to protest against the Modi government," said Suraj Jena, CPI leader

The local residents also criticized the hike saying, "They shouldn't have increased rail fare as not even one month has passed since the formation of Modi government. People thought of betterment but they are making the situation worse," said Sushma Nayak a resident.

"It is unfair to increase prices just before presenting the budget. Earlier Congress also did this and now NDA is also doing the same thing. There is no difference between the two. Had there been some improvement in the facilities then it could have still been accepted," added another resident Sushant.

The government has increased rail passenger fares by 14.2 percent and freight rates by 6.5 percent, which has led to an outcry by the opposition parties.

Earlier today similar protests were also held in New Delhi, Varanasi and Allahabad by Congress and Samajwadi Party workers respectively.