Bihar minister Shrawon Kumar faces backlash after 'diabetes' take on sugar price rise sparks reactions online
Speaking about the rise in sugar prices, Kumar told the media that people are suffering from diabetes and thus the cost increase will not make much difference.
What began as a question about the sugar price rise turned into a debate over sweets and diabetes when Bihar minister Shrawon Kumar’s remarks went viral on social media.
Bihar minister Shrawon Kumar's comment that “who eats sweets and such things anymore?” has triggered a wave of reactions online. (@PTI_News/X)
His comment that “who eats sweets and such things anymore?” has triggered a wave of reactions online.
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According to media reports, sugar's price per kilogram have risen more than ₹65 in Bihar recently.
Deep Dive
What reasons did the government give for the recent rise in sugar prices?
The government attributed the rise in sugar prices to factors including lower-than-expected domestic production, increased demand ahead of the festive season, weather-related damage to sugarcane crop, tightening global supplies, and speculation and hoarding by some industry sectors.
Why did Bihar minister Shrawon Kumar's comments on sugar prices go viral?
Shrawon Kumar's comments suggested that rising sugar prices were insignificant because people are consuming less sugar due to diabetes, which sparked a wave of sarcastic reactions and criticism on social media.
How is the government addressing the increase in sugar prices?
The government is allowing duty-free imports of raw sugar to enhance domestic availability and maintain stable prices, while also monitoring the situation and taking measures to ensure adequate sugar supplies.
After Kumar's comments went viral on social media, netizens reacted to the same with a touch of sarcasm.
"Sugar prices are rising, but Bihar Minister Shri Shravan Kumar ji has the perfect solution: people should simply eat less sugar because of diabetes. Problem solved at least according to the minister," an X user said in a post.
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"As per Bihar Govt Minister Shravan Kumar, rising sugar prices do not matter as every one is sick and are consuming less sugar. Does he means entire India is sick. What a statement!" another individual said on the social media platform.
Apart from Bihar's reported sugar price hike, retail sugar prices have gone up to ₹70 per kg in Kolkata markets, news agency PTI reported, citing traders on Friday.
According to an official statement of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, sugar prices have increased in recent weeks, from ₹48.18 per kg on July 20, 2026 to ₹55.70 per kg on August 20, 2026.
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"The Government is closely monitoring the situation and has taken a series of measures to ensure adequate availability of sugar and stable prices for consumers," the statement noted.
It also clarified that the rise in prices of sugar cannot be attributed to diversion of sugar for ethanol production.
"Sugar production during the current season is expected to be around 306 LMT, compared to the initial estimate of around 343 LMT by sugarcane-growing States," the release added.
Anushka Awasthi is a Content Producer at Hindustan Times, where she covers politics, geopolitics, and major national and international developments. She holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU), New Delhi. Passionate about India's political landscape, Anushka believes that politics shapes every aspect of society, from public policy to everyday life. This drives her to deliver timely, accurate, and researched news that helps readers make sense of everyday developments. Before joining Hindustan Times, Anushka worked with the Zee News English website, reporting extensively on Indian politics and international affairs. During her tenure, she also wrote a range of interviews and analytical stories, focusing on key political and international affairs events. Her reporting is driven by a strong interest in journalism and a dedication to balanced reporting. She strives to present news with clarity and context in the digital era. She aims to ensure that readers stay informed about issues that matter. Outside the newsroom, she enjoys planning her next travel adventure to various corners of India, reading classical books, and binging sitcoms. A coffee enthusiast, she is always on the lookout for new places and experiences.
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