Dehradun, March 28 -- Veteran Congress leader and former Chief Minister Harish Rawat observed a symbolic fast at his residence in Defence Colony, Dehradun, today, in protest against the 'steadily increasing electricity and water tariffs'. He announced that for the next fifteen days he would distance himself from political programmes and also media interactions. Rawat stated that his symbolic vow of silence during the sacred occasion of Ram Navami is dedicated to the millions of people suffering under the burden of rising utility costs.

He remarked that although tariffs have not yet been raised this season, consumers are already reeling under the pressure of previous hikes. He emphasised that every household is struggling in the grip of i...