New Delhi, March 28: The recent decision by the central government to reduce excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per liter has sparked mixed reactions among Congress leaders.
Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi welcomed any form of relief but called for a “comprehensive program” to address the issue. Meanwhile, party leader Pawan Khera emphasized that this reduction primarily benefits oil marketing companies rather than consumers.
This government move comes amid fears of rising crude oil prices due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has triggered a global energy crisis. Khera questioned the true beneficiaries of this price cut.
In an interview with a news agency, he stated, “Who is this cut for? It is for oil marketing companies, some of which are private and some government-owned. But it does not benefit the consumer. If you go to fill petrol today, see how much the price has actually decreased. Not a single penny has been reduced for the consumer.”
Khera also accused the central government of raising excise duty on fuel multiple times, noting that petrol and diesel duties have been increased nearly 12 times over the past eleven and a half years.
The government clarified on Friday that there would be no change in the retail pump prices of petrol and diesel, and the benefits of the excise duty cut are not being passed directly to consumers at the pump.
Congress MP Ujjwal Raman Singh pointed out that the public believes domestic prices should decrease proportionally when international crude oil prices fall. He questioned why diesel, petrol, and LPG cylinder prices have not been reduced in India over the past 12 years when global prices were lower.
“This is a significant issue. I believe the government has not taken it seriously,” he remarked.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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