Opposing the decision to allow 51 per cent foreign direct investment in the multi-brand retail sector, hike in diesel prices and reduction in subsidised cooking gas cylinders, taken by the Centre, West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee said here on Friday that “a loot is on”.
Pointing out that her party would not support the decision, she said, “This is a big jolt. We are really sorry. We cannot support anything that is against the interests of the poor and common people. Loot cholchhe, loot (A loot is on).”
In what could be construed as a caution to the United Progressive Alliance government, Ms. Banerjee also indicated on her Facebook page earlier in the day that decisions like raising the price of diesel and restricting annual supply of subsidised cooking gas cylinders to six per household could get the people to seek change.
“One should remember if the kitchen is hurt, the woman is hurt, then the people at large become stronger to bring about change,” she wrote.
Expressing shock at the decision to hike the diesel price and restrict the availability of cooking gas cylinders, Ms. Banerjee had said on Thursday night that her party, the second largest constituent in the ruling coalition at the Centre, would now have to consider whether to continue in the Congress-led government.
