“Why Are We Outraged Over Milk but Silent on Colgate’s 23% Price Hike?”
price hike consumer reaction, everyday essentials price increase, government accountability food prices
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In a recent tweet, Amitabh Chaudhary highlighted a growing disparity in public reaction to price hikes of essential commodities versus consumer goods. The tweet points out that when the prices of staple items like milk or onions rise by even ₹1, there is widespread outrage, resulting in governmental blame, intense media debates, and protests from opposition parties demanding accountability and resignation from the government. In stark contrast, Chaudhary notes that the price of Colgate Max Fresh toothpaste has surged from ₹140 to ₹172 over a span of four months—a significant 23% increase—yet this price rise has gone largely unnoticed, attracting little to no public outcry or debate.

This observation raises an important discussion about societal priorities and the perception of essential versus non-essential goods. Essential items, such as food staples, are viewed through the lens of necessity, leading to immediate public concern when their prices fluctuate. In contrast, consumer goods, even those as ubiquitous as toothpaste, seem to elicit a more subdued response when prices increase. This discrepancy could be attributed to a variety of factors, including the ingrained societal perception that food is a basic right, whereas consumer goods are often viewed as discretionary purchases.

The lack of outrage over the price increase of a widely used product like Colgate Max Fresh could also reflect broader consumer behavior. Many consumers may not perceive the increase as significant enough to warrant action or debate, particularly when it comes to non-essential items. This indifference might stem from the belief that price hikes in branded products are a standard practice, especially in competitive markets where price fluctuations are common.

Moreover, the tweet invites readers to consider the implications of such differences in public reaction. It suggests that societal values may prioritize basic needs over lifestyle choices, which could be an important insight for policymakers, economists, and market analysts. Understanding the reasons behind consumer reactions to price changes can help businesses and the government navigate economic challenges more effectively.

Chaudhary’s tweet serves as a call to action, urging individuals to reflect on their responses to price changes and consider whether a more uniform approach to all price hikes could lead to better accountability from both corporations and the government. By fostering a culture of awareness and discussion regarding all price increases, consumers can better advocate for fair pricing practices across both essential and non-essential goods.

In summary, Amitabh Chaudhary’s tweet underscores a vital conversation about economic disparity in consumer reactions to price hikes of food staples versus branded products. It prompts a reevaluation of societal values, urging consumers to recognize the importance of addressing all price increases, regardless of the category of goods. By fostering awareness and encouraging dialogue, we can promote a more equitable economic environment that holds all entities accountable for their pricing practices.

If Milk or Onion gets costly by even ₹1 , people start blaming govt , news debates start , opposition comes out protesting and demanding resignation from govt.

But, Price of Colgate Max Fresh 4 months has increased from ₹140 to ₹172 (hike by 23% ) , but no debate no outrage… pic.twitter.com/pDoNCDsd0N

— Amitabh Chaudhary (@MithilaWaala) June 28, 2025

If Milk or Onion Gets Costly by Even ₹1, People Start Blaming Govt

If you’ve been following the news lately, you might have noticed that any hike in the prices of essential commodities like milk or onions sends shockwaves through the public. People start blaming the government, the media goes into a frenzy, and before you know it, there are protests demanding the resignation of government officials. It’s almost as if the price of these staples is a litmus test for the government’s efficiency. But what about other products? This raises an interesting question: Why is there such a disparity in public outrage when it comes to the prices of essential goods versus everyday items like toothpaste?

News Debates Start, Opposition Comes Out Protesting

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the public reaction when basic necessities like milk or onions see even a ₹1 increase in price. There’s an uproar. Social media platforms ignite with hashtags and trending topics. News channels dedicate entire segments to discuss the implications of these price hikes, and opposition parties seize the opportunity to rally the masses in protest. It’s a well-oiled machine of public outrage that seems to be activated with the mere mention of rising food prices.

But, isn’t it curious that the price of a product like Colgate Max Fresh, which recently shot up from ₹140 to ₹172—a staggering 23% increase—has gone largely unnoticed? It’s as if consumers have resigned themselves to the price hikes of non-essential items without a second thought. This discrepancy raises eyebrows and questions about our consumer priorities.

Price of Colgate Max Fresh Increased: No Debate, No Outrage

When we look at the recent price hike of Colgate Max Fresh, it’s hard not to feel a sense of irony. Four months ago, it was comfortably priced at ₹140, and now it’s sitting at ₹172. That 23% increase didn’t trigger any waves of concern or mass protests. Why? Perhaps it’s because toothpaste isn’t viewed as a necessity in the same way milk and onions are. People feel they can choose to buy a different brand or forgo it altogether, whereas food staples are seen as non-negotiable.

This brings us to the broader question of consumer behavior and societal norms. Essential items like milk and onions are staples in Indian households, and their prices are often tied to the overall sentiment towards the government’s economic policies. If these prices rise, it’s perceived as a direct failure of governance. However, when it comes to toothpaste, the public seems more forgiving, even if it’s a significant hike.

What Does This Say About Our Priorities?

The reaction, or lack thereof, to the price hike of Colgate Max Fresh serves as a reflection of our consumer priorities. While it’s understandable that people would be more vocal about the prices of food staples, it also points to a larger issue. Are we becoming desensitized to the rising costs of everyday items that don’t fall under the “essential” category? Or are there other factors at play, such as brand loyalty or the perceived necessity of certain products?

Moreover, the lack of outrage over the price hike of toothpaste could also indicate that consumers are more focused on the essentials of survival rather than the luxury of choice. In a country where basic needs are still a struggle for many, the conversation around toothpaste seems trivial. Yet, it’s important to note that rising prices across all sectors can lead to a cumulative effect on the average consumer’s wallet.

The Role of Media in Shaping Consumer Perception

Media plays a critical role in shaping public perception and outrage. When prices of milk or onions rise, the media is quick to report and analyze the implications. In contrast, when it comes to products like toothpaste, the media’s silence can contribute to a sense of normalization around price hikes. This discrepancy in coverage can create a skewed perception of what is important and what deserves public outcry.

The media’s focus on food prices often highlights the struggles of the common man, while products like toothpaste might not resonate as strongly with the audience. This can lead to a situation where consumers feel less compelled to voice their concerns over non-essential items.

Should We Be Concerned About Non-Essential Price Hikes?

While it’s easy to dismiss toothpaste price hikes as insignificant, they are symptomatic of larger economic trends. When companies can increase prices without facing public backlash, it sets a precedent for a culture of complacency among consumers. If consumers become accustomed to rising prices without question, businesses may feel justified in continuing this trend.

The price increase of everyday items like Colgate Max Fresh should be a point of discussion, too. After all, the cumulative effect of rising prices on non-essential items can impact consumer spending habits, ultimately affecting the economy as a whole.

The Psychological Impact of Price Hikes

There’s also a psychological element to consider. When people see food prices rising, it triggers a sense of urgency and fear about their financial future. This fear is compounded by the fact that food is a basic necessity. In contrast, a price increase in toothpaste might not evoke the same emotional response.

This psychological disparity can lead to selective outrage, where consumers only focus on the issues that directly impact their immediate survival. But what happens when these non-essential items become essential due to economic shifts? It’s a slippery slope that could lead to greater discontent if left unaddressed.

A Call for Balanced Consumer Awareness

It’s time to foster a more balanced consumer awareness that includes both essential and non-essential products. Public outrage should not be reserved solely for food items; we must also consider how rising prices in everyday products can affect our overall financial health.

Consumers need to realize that every price increase, whether it’s for milk, onions, or toothpaste, is a reflection of broader economic trends. The more we engage in discussions about all price hikes, the more informed we become as consumers.

Conclusion: The Need for Collective Consumer Vigilance

As consumers, it’s essential to remain vigilant about price hikes across all sectors. While it’s easy to focus on the essentials, we should also be mindful of how rising prices in non-essential items can affect our purchasing power and overall economy. The lack of debate and outrage over the price increase of Colgate Max Fresh should serve as a wake-up call for all of us.

By staying informed and vocal about all price increases, we can create a more balanced consumer culture that holds businesses accountable for their pricing strategies. Whether it’s milk, onions, or toothpaste, every price hike deserves our attention. Let’s not allow complacency to set in, and instead, let’s keep the conversation going.