Giriraj Singh Praises PM Modi's Commitment; Critiques Opposition's Irresponsibility Following Excise Cut
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 27 (NationPress) The government has recently reduced excise duties on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre, lowering the central tax on petrol to Rs 3 per litre and making diesel exempt from duty. This initiative is designed to ease the financial burden on consumers amidst escalating global fuel prices, receiving commendation from Union Minister Giriraj Singh, who also criticized opposing political leaders.
“This administration is committed to upholding the Constitution. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is devoted to the citizens of India, which is the core of his philosophy… Regrettably, the circumstances in Bengal mirror this concern, where the local government and all non-NDA factions are failing to assist the populace during such pivotal moments,” Singh conveyed to IANS.
He further admonished the opposition, stating: "Members of the ‘Tukde Tukde Gang’, including Rahul Gandhi and others, are disseminating falsehoods that no true patriot would endorse. The global community is aware that we rely on fuel imports, all of which are managed under PM Modi's oversight. Despite clear communication regarding petrol and diesel availability for upcoming days, the opposition continues to propagate unfounded rumors. Those who genuinely care for the nation would never behave in this manner. The actions of leaders like Rahul and Akhilesh Yadav are nothing short of irresponsible.”
However, industry analysts warn that the reduction in excise duty may not lead to proportional decreases in petrol prices, as oil marketing companies (OMCs) might retain a portion of the savings to mitigate substantial losses on their sales.
Previously, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi cautioned that the government might raise prices on petrol, diesel, and LPG following the Assembly elections. He pointed to the weakening rupee and rising industrial fuel costs as catalysts for potential inflation.
Gandhi remarked that increasing production and transportation expenses will adversely affect small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and foreign investment outflows could negatively impact the stock market. He accused the government of merely offering empty promises while ordinary households bear the consequences of economic mismanagement.
This duty reduction occurs against a backdrop of increasing global crude oil prices and growing domestic inflationary pressures, making fuel affordability a significant political and economic concern.