The Centre has reduced excise duties on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre, lowering central taxes on petrol to Rs 3 per litre and eliminating duties on diesel. Union Minister Giriraj Singh commended the move, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the people. Singh criticized opposition leaders for allegedly failing to support citizens during challenging times, accusing them of spreading misinformation.
Singh targeted the opposition, specifically mentioning the ‘Tukde Tukde Gang’, Rahul Gandhi, and others, accusing them of irresponsible behavior and spreading rumors. He emphasized that the government manages fuel imports and clarified the supply situation under PM Modi’s leadership. Despite the duty reduction, industry experts caution that petrol pump prices may not decrease significantly as oil marketing companies could absorb much of the cut to offset losses.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi cautioned that post-Assembly elections, the government might raise prices of petrol, diesel, and LPG due to a weakening rupee and increasing industrial fuel costs. Gandhi warned of potential inflation, rising production and transport expenses, and adverse impacts on small and medium enterprises. He criticized the government for what he perceived as mere rhetoric while households bear the brunt of economic mismanagement.
The excise duty reduction comes amidst escalating global crude prices and growing domestic inflationary pressures, underscoring the significance of fuel affordability as a critical political and economic concern.
