16 June
News Flash
Siddaramaiah Defends Fuel Price Hike Amid Political Criticism and Allegations
Bengaluru: The recent Lok Sabha elections did not yield substantial gains for the Congress party in Karnataka, where accusations of slowing development are on the rise. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has come forward to defend the state government's decision to increase fuel prices by Rs 3 per litre, implemented just yesterday.
In a tweet, CM Siddaramaiah justified the hike, pointing out that even after the increase, fuel prices in Karnataka remain lower compared to many other states across India. "The state government has raised VAT on petrol by 29.84% and on diesel by 18.44%. Despite this, our state's fuel taxes are lower than most states in South India and economic powerhouses like Maharashtra," he asserted.
Highlighting the comparative tax rates, Siddaramaiah criticized the BJP-led central government for allegedly diverting Karnataka's resources to benefit other states. He accused the central government of increasing taxes while the state BJP government reduced VAT on fuel, thereby reducing Karnataka's revenue.
"The double-engine BJP government strategy has disadvantaged Karnataka by reducing state VAT while increasing central taxes, thereby affecting our revenue," Siddaramaiah expressed. He stressed that despite frequent tax adjustments by the central government, the burden on the people persists.
Siddaramaiah assured that the revenue generated from the VAT hike would be allocated towards essential public services and developmental projects, emphasizing the state government's commitment to balanced and accountable governance.
Amid ongoing political debates, Siddaramaiah urged the Narendra Modi-led central government to consider reducing excise duties on fuel, advocating for relief to benefit the people of Karnataka.