Karnataka Government Increases Diesel Prices by ₹2; Opposition Criticizes Move

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Karnataka Government Increases Diesel Prices by ₹2; Opposition Criticizes Move

Synopsis

The Karnataka government raised diesel prices by ₹2 per litre, drawing significant criticism from opposition parties. Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy highlighted the burden on citizens, with ongoing financial strains from various price hikes.

Key Takeaways

  • Karnataka diesel price increased by ₹2.
  • Opposition parties criticize the government.
  • Public facing multiple price hikes.
  • Government's policies deemed anti-people.
  • Protests anticipated against price hikes.

Bengaluru, April 2 (NationPress) The government of Karnataka has announced an increase in diesel prices by ₹2 per litre, effective immediately. This decision has faced backlash from the opposition parties, including the BJP and JD (S).

Prior to the increase, the cost of diesel was ₹88.99 per litre.

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, expressed his discontent on Tuesday, stating, "This is yet another blow for the citizens of Karnataka from the anti-people price-hike government. Over the last ten months, the Karnataka Congress government has raised diesel prices by ₹5 per litre," he added.

On the occasion of Ugadi, a festival symbolizing new beginnings, Kumaraswamy criticized the government for imposing additional financial burdens on the populace.

He remarked, "As soon as citizens awake, they are met with the reality of exploitation by the Karnataka East India Congress Company. This Congress-led administration lacks both vision and empathy. The only option left for the people is to protest against this ruthless exploitation."

BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra commented, "This is another setback for the citizens. The Siddaramaiah government has once again displayed its unquenchable greed by hiking diesel prices by ₹2 per litre—an action that will further burden the common man."

He added, "The underprivileged, the elderly, farmers, and salaried individuals are all grappling with the relentless pressure of this government's anti-people policies. Each new decision deepens their struggles, leaving them with no respite, no assistance, only hardship."

"We will not rest until these inhumane price hikes are rescinded. Karnataka deserves better—this exploitation must come to an end," he emphasized.

This development has surprised the public, particularly as the hikes in milk prices (by ₹4 per litre) and revised power tariffs also took effect on the same day. The government issued a notification regarding the diesel price increase by day's end.