Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former State Finance Minister, Jayant Patil, has called on the Maharashtra government to prioritize public interest by immediately removing Value Added Tax (VAT) and surcharges on petrol and diesel due to the current economic challenges. Patil emphasized the urgent need for relief as the continuous rise in fuel prices is severely impacting the common man.
Highlighting the economic strain caused by the ongoing conflict in the Gulf countries, Patil expressed deep concern over the escalating inflation and the surge in prices of essential commodities. He criticized the Union government for the frequent hikes in fuel prices, noting significant increases in both petrol and diesel rates.
In a letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Patil urged proactive measures to alleviate the burden on citizens. He pointed out that the state government imposes VAT and surcharges on fuel statewide, including in major cities like Mumbai, Thane, and Navi Mumbai. Patil’s plea coincides with Fadnavis’ observation of a notable rise in regional fuel consumption and efforts to stabilize market demand.
CM Fadnavis highlighted the monitoring of fuel supply distribution pipelines and the expansion of petrol and diesel distribution to meet market demands. He addressed concerns of hoarding and potential diversion of fuel for commercial purposes, emphasizing the need to ensure the effective distribution of resources to agricultural and consumer sectors.
