Congress Leaders Demand Comprehensive Relief Amid Fuel Tax Cuts

Key Takeaways

The Central government reduced excise duties on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre.

Congress leaders emphasize the need for a comprehensive relief program for consumers.

The excise duty cut is perceived as benefiting oil marketing companies rather than consumers.

Criticism was directed at the government for previous increases in excise duties.

There are calls for more accountability and transparency regarding fuel pricing policies.

New Delhi, March 27 (NationPress) Leaders from Congress expressed diverse views on Friday regarding the Central government's choice to reduce excise duties on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre each.

Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi remarked that while any relief is appreciated, there is a need for a "comprehensive programme". Conversely, party spokesperson Pawan Khera emphasized that the reduction primarily benefits oil marketing companies, not the end consumers.

This government action was prompted by concerns over a potential surge in crude oil prices, stemming from the global energy crisis linked to the conflict in West Asia and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Khera questioned the intention behind the price cut, asking, "Who is this cut meant for?" He pointed out that despite the reduction, petrol prices at the pump have not changed for consumers. "Not even a paisa has been lowered for the consumer," he stated in an interview with IANS.

He also criticized the government for repeatedly increasing excise duties on fuel, claiming, "They (the Central government) have raised the excise duty approximately 12 times on petrol and diesel over the last 11 and a half years."

The government clarified that retail prices for petrol and diesel would remain steady, with the excise cut not being reflected in consumer prices.

Congress MP Ujjwal Raman Singh commented, "The citizens expect domestic prices to drop when international crude oil prices decline. Why haven’t diesel, petrol, and LPG cylinder prices been reduced in the past 12 years when global prices were low?"

He stressed that this is a significant issue that the government has not addressed adequately. "Despite Rahul Gandhi’s warnings about an impending energy crisis due to the conflict in West Asia, the government failed to discuss this in Parliament or prepare the public," he noted.

Speaking to journalists outside Parliament, Singhvi remarked, "Any relief, in whatever form, should be welcomed if it is appropriate, valid, accurate, and timely."

However, he insisted that we should not ignore the reality of the situation. "This action was necessary because we are grappling with petrol-related issues. Until now, we were reluctant to accept the implications of the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States," he explained.

Singhvi concluded by stating that while he welcomes this step at this stage, a comprehensive programme is essential to address the broader impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Congress leaders say about the fuel tax cut?

Congress leaders expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the cut while others criticized it for benefiting oil companies instead of consumers.

What is the current situation regarding petrol and diesel prices?

The Central government announced that retail prices for petrol and diesel will not change, and the excise cut is not being passed on to consumers.

How many times has the excise duty been raised in recent years?

Khera claimed that the Central government has raised the excise duty on fuel approximately 12 times over the past 11 and a half years.

What did Ujjwal Raman Singh emphasize about fuel prices?

Singh emphasized that when international crude oil prices fall, domestic prices should also decrease accordingly, questioning why they haven’t in recent years.

What do Congress leaders suggest for future actions?

They call for a comprehensive programme to ensure that consumer needs are addressed alongside any government actions related to fuel pricing.