AASU Protests Against Rising Prices in Assam, Questions Government's Commitment

Shillong, India Aug 27, 2026 ALN: Guwahati/ Jorhat, Aug 27: Rising prices of essential commodities came under sharp criticism from the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) on Thursday, with the students’ body staging protests across Assam and accusing the government of failing to protect households from the mounting cost of living.

In Guwahati, AASU members gathered near Swahid Nyas at Uzanbazar, raising concerns over the sustained increase in the prices of food and other daily necessities. The protests reflect a growing sentiment among the populace regarding the economic pressures faced by families in Assam, particularly in light of the current inflationary trends affecting various sectors.

AASU president Utpal Sarma linked the price rise to the broader political and economic situation, questioning why commodity prices remain relatively stable during elections but increase sharply afterwards. This observation is not unique to Assam; it resonates with a common narrative observed in various regions of India, where political cycles often appear to influence market dynamics. Sarma's remarks suggest a perceived disconnect between government actions and the realities faced by ordinary citizens.

“During elections, prices remain stable, but after elections, they rise rapidly. This raises a serious question - is the government with the people or with elite businessmen?” Sarma said. His comments highlight a growing distrust among the populace towards governmental accountability and transparency. The timing of price hikes post-elections often leads to speculation about collusion between political entities and business interests, an issue that has been a longstanding concern in Indian politics.

He also questioned the rise in prices amid the recent floods that affected three districts, arguing that consumers should have received relief rather than face further increases. The floods, which have devastating impacts on agriculture and local economies, typically lead to supply shortages that can exacerbate price increases. Sarma's call for government intervention during such crises underscores the need for timely and effective disaster management strategies that prioritize the welfare of affected communities.

“Three districts have just suffered a disaster and people are already facing immense hardship. At such a time, instead of reducing the prices of essential commodities, the government is allowing them to rise beyond the common man’s reach. Even medicines have become more expensive. This is deeply insensitive,” he said. The rising costs of basic necessities like food and medicine during such trying times can lead to increased hardship for vulnerable populations, raising questions about the adequacy of the government's response mechanisms.

The students’ body also questioned attempts to blame the recent floods for the price rise, urging authorities to identify and act against traders allegedly exploiting the situation to inflate prices. This concern reflects a broader issue of market regulation and the need for robust mechanisms to protect consumers from unfair trade practices. The AASU's demand for accountability from traders is indicative of a desire for a more equitable economic environment.

“If traders are using the floods as an excuse to raise prices, the government should identify those responsible, take action against them and punish them. It must also consult all stakeholders and find a lasting solution instead of allowing prices to rise arbitrarily,” an AASU protester said. This call for stakeholder engagement is crucial, as it emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the government, traders, and consumers to foster a fair marketplace.

AASU warned that the agitation would continue beyond Thursday and said it would sustain its protests until there was a noticeable decline in the prices of essential commodities. The persistence of these protests indicates a deep-seated frustration among the youth and student population regarding economic conditions, which could have implications for future political mobilization and activism in the region.

In Jorhat, the issue took a more visible turn as the Jorhat District Students’ Association organised a protest march from Jorhat Stadium to the District Commissioner’s office. This march not only served as a platform for raising awareness about the price hikes but also demonstrated the organizational capabilities of student bodies in mobilizing community action around pressing issues.

Hundreds of protesters joined the march, raising slogans against the government and the Supply Department over what they described as inadequate measures to regulate the market. The collective action of the community signifies a broader demand for government accountability and effective governance in managing market conditions.

The protesters later submitted a memorandum to the government through the District Commissioner, seeking urgent intervention to bring down the prices of essential commodities and strengthen market surveillance. This formal approach to voicing grievances reflects a strategic method of engagement with governmental structures, highlighting the importance of institutional channels in addressing public concerns.

The Jorhat demonstration highlighted specific price increases reported in recent days. Protesters said the price of onions had risen by around Rs 16 per kg over the past 15 days, while sugar had become costlier by Rs 15 to Rs 20 per kg. Mustard oil, they said, had also increased by around Rs 8 per litre. These specific figures provide tangible evidence of the economic pressures faced by households, illustrating the direct impact of inflation on daily life.

“These increases are putting tremendous pressure on ordinary households,” an AASU protester in Jorhat said. The stress on household budgets due to rising prices can lead to broader social implications, including increased dissatisfaction with government performance and potential unrest if not addressed promptly.

The students’ body demanded stronger market monitoring, action against profiteering, and accountability for those found to be artificially inflating prices. The call for stronger market regulation is indicative of a larger trend towards consumer advocacy in the region, emphasizing the need for government action to protect vulnerable populations from exploitation, especially during crises.

As the protests continue, the AASU's actions serve as a reminder of the critical role that student organizations play in advocating for social justice and economic equity. Their mobilization not only addresses immediate concerns but also reflects broader societal challenges that require sustained attention from both the government and civil society.