Bengaluru, April 17 -- Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala on Thursday strongly criticised the BJP-led Central government, accusing it of "fleecing the people of Karnataka" through recent hikes in fuel and LPG prices.

The Congress-led Karnataka government launched a state-wide agitation called "Bekitha Kitha Dubari BJP" in Bengaluru to protest against the increase in gas and petrol prices. The demonstrations are being led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and KPCC President DK Shivakumar.

Speaking to reporters, Congress MP Randeep Surjewala said, "...This is a reality today of Karnataka and the country. The way in which the Modi government has raised the prices of gas cylinders by Rs 50 and increased excise duty of petrol and diesel by Rs ...