Why is the BJP Criticizing Siddaramaiah's Government Over Petrol Price Increases?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The BJP has criticized Siddaramaiah's government for proposed petrol price hikes.
- Previous hikes have already strained citizens' finances.
- Concerns over farmers' compensation remain unresolved.
- A cess on fuel is aimed at aiding unorganized workers.
- Revenue generated could enhance health facilities for these workers.
Bengaluru, Nov 13 (NationPress) The BJP has criticized the Congress government in Karnataka, headed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, for allegedly planning to increase petrol prices by an additional Re 1 per litre.
In a scathing attack on the state administration, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka on Thursday called for the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
He remarked: "Yet again, petrol prices are set to rise; this is another hit to the common man's finances courtesy of the Congress-led government. In June 2024, petrol prices went up by Rs 3 per litre, while diesel saw a hike of Rs 3.5. Then in April 2025, diesel prices increased by Rs 2, and now in November 2025, there is a proposal to raise petrol prices by Re 1 per litre.
How long will the people of Karnataka endure the consequences of the Congress government's mismanagement, ineffectiveness, and corruption? Ashoka questioned.
He further asserted that the state government is entangled in unnecessary controversies such as power transfers, cabinet expansions, the suggested RSS ban, and the Dharmasthala case, while it has entirely overlooked the needs of farmers.
Ashoka pointed out that the government has failed to deliver the promised compensation to farmers.
It is noteworthy that the state government has declared it will provide compensation to farmers within 30 days of the announcement.
Sources indicate that the government is considering implementing a cess of Re 1 on petrol, diesel, and ethanol products for the benefit of unorganized workers.
The Labour Department believes that if a cess of Re 1 is levied on every litre of petrol, it could benefit approximately 1.30 crore workers and their 62 lakh families.
Additionally, it is estimated that imposing a cess of Re 1 per litre on both petrol and diesel could yield Rs 2,120 crore, with Labour Department officials suggesting that Rs 1,772 crore of this amount could be allocated for health facilities for unorganized workers.