The Congress highlighted that any decrease in excise duty is essentially a refund of citizens’ money to them. Following the government’s cut in excise duties on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per liter each, Congress MP Manish Tewari emphasized that government revenue is sourced from taxpayers’ payments. Tewari criticized the portrayal of the reduction as a significant relief, stating that it is merely a return of the public’s funds.
The move to lower excise duty was met with skepticism by some, including Pramod Tiwari, who likened it to a minor concession after imposing heavy financial burdens. Tiwari pointed out the substantial increase in fuel prices over the years, stressing the strain it has placed on the populace. He drew a comparison, describing the government’s action as akin to a robber discarding a small portion of the loot after a heist.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi acknowledged the necessity of providing relief amidst soaring global oil prices but questioned the timing, suggesting electoral motives ahead of state Assembly elections. Chaturvedi expressed concerns over potential post-election price hikes and urged the government to prioritize public welfare. RJD MP Misa Bharti also weighed in, noting the persistent scarcity of essential resources like LPG, petrol, and diesel despite the price reduction.
