Bhatkal: The Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), Kumta-Honnavar unit, staged a protest on Sunday against rising prices of essential commodities and the hike in KSRTC bus fares, demanding immediate government intervention.

The protest was held under the leadership of Kumta-Honnavar taluk president Rafiq Hemakki, who said rising prices of milk, curd, rice, cooking oil, fuel and cooking gas had increased the financial burden on ordinary families.

Criticising the state and central governments, he alleged that rising costs were making everyday life increasingly difficult for the common people, despite the government's welfare commitments. He urged the authorities to reduce the prices of essential commodities and KSRTC bus fares to provide relief to the public.

Party district secretary Mansoor Khazi, taluk vice-president Tausif Sikandar, secretary Rizwan Kagal, treasurer Abbu Yusuf and Bhatkal taluk president Maqbool were among those present, along with party workers and supporters.