The BJP in Punjab has suggested that the state government should emulate the BJP-led Central government’s approach to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices on the public. BJP General Secretary Anil Sarin emphasized the need for Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to reduce state taxes by Rs 3 per litre on petrol and diesel to alleviate financial strain on farmers and the general populace during the crucial sowing season.
Sarin highlighted that despite global factors like the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Central government refrained from raising petrol and diesel prices for over four years starting from April 2022. Conversely, the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab hiked state taxes post-March 2022, adding nearly Rs 3 per litre burden on consumers.
Pointing out the surge in crude oil prices due to the ongoing war-like situation, Sarin noted the substantial increase in fuel prices across various countries. While the US, Europe, Pakistan, and Bangladesh witnessed significant price hikes, India experienced a modest 3% rise. Sarin urged Chief Minister Mann to emulate the Central government’s tax reduction strategy to ease the Rs 3 per litre hike and provide relief to the public.
