On May 15, 2026, Derek O'Brien, a prominent leader of the Trinamool Congress party, publicly criticized the BJP-led Central government for its recent decision to increase petrol and diesel prices by ₹3 per litre. This increase marks the first rate hike in over four years and comes amid rising global crude prices that have impacted fuel retailers. O'Brien's comments were made through a post on X, where he expressed his discontent, stating, 'First they loot your vote, then they kick you where it hurts.' The timing of the price hike is notable as it occurred just 16 days after Assembly elections concluded in several states, including Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. Throughout the election period, fuel prices remained unchanged despite a significant rise in international oil prices due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. O'Brien further questioned whether the West Bengal government would consider reducing the Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel, given that the BJP now holds power at both the state and central levels, alleviating concerns about potential funding issues from the Centre. He emphasized that fuel prices vary across states due to differing VAT rates, highlighting the complexities of the issue.