Mumbai, March 27 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis commended the Centre’s initiative to cut excise duty on petrol and diesel, emphasizing that this measure will shield Indian consumers from the repercussions of the ongoing Middle East turmoil.

The Chief Minister described the government's decision as a crucial protective step against fluctuations in global energy prices. The Centre has implemented an excise duty reduction of Rs 10 per litre on both petrol and diesel effective immediately.

In a statement to the press, CM Fadnavis expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting that while neighboring countries such as Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh grapple with significant shortages, India has managed to sustain stability. He remarked, “The Central government has ensured that the escalating crude prices do not impose a financial burden on the average citizen.”

“Unlike nations like Pakistan and Sri Lanka which are experiencing fuel shortages, India’s effective management has guaranteed adequate stock levels,” he added. The Chief Minister called on citizens to refrain from “panic buying,” assuring them that refineries are functioning at peak capacity and that domestic reserves can sustain demand for over 60 days.

CM Fadnavis also issued a firm warning to “rumor-mongers” on social media platforms like WhatsApp and X (formerly Twitter), who have been disseminating misleading information regarding a nationwide lockdown or fuel scarcity. He explained that the tax cut is also designed to assist oil marketing companies (OMCs) in absorbing high import costs without increasing retail prices.

This statement follows remarks by Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, who advised the public not to heed lockdown rumors. He clarified that the government does not plan to impose a lockdown and expressed concern over the risks of spreading rumors during global conflicts, stressing the importance of maintaining public calm.

“The government had two options: either raise prices significantly for the citizens of Bharat, as other countries have done, or absorb the financial impact to protect the Indian people from international volatility. Prime Minister Modi Ji chose to absorb the financial blow to safeguard the Indian citizen. The government has significantly impacted its tax revenues to alleviate the losses faced by oil marketing companies amid soaring international prices,” Minister Puri noted.

Previously, CM Fadnavis addressed the ongoing LPG shortage, mentioning that the hospitality sector has been temporarily impacted as the government prioritizes domestic supply. He assured farmers that the distribution of fertilizers and diesel for agricultural purposes will be closely monitored to prevent black marketing or hoarding.