West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee has seriously criticized the centre over the hike in medicine prices recently, which she called "an anti-people move" that would inconvenience ordinary citizens. In turn, the TMC has called statewide rallies on April 4 and 5 as a protest against the price rise and for the relief of common people.

The sudden hike in the price of vital medicines, such as those for diabetes, heart disease, and antibiotics, has raised eyebrows throughout the nation. Speaking at a gathering, Banerjee blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government for not keeping inflation in check and rendering healthcare out of reach for the poor.

"The central government is acting against the people's interests. Rather than offering relief, they are increasing the cost of medicines. This is not acceptable," Banerjee said. She called upon the Centre to step in immediately and reverse the price hike.

The TMC has organized protests in West Bengal, with rallies being organized in key cities and district headquarters. Senior party workers and leaders will take part in the protests to make people aware and to exert pressure on the government.

Opposition parties have also criticized the price rise, describing it as a retrograde step for public healthcare. However, the Centre has defended the move, stating that it follows the NPPA recommendations and is necessary for supply chain stability.

As the political slanging match reaches a crescendo, citizens are still concerned at rising healthcare costs, with large numbers anticipating a government intervention that will ease the burden on their wallets.