Kharge alleged that petrol prices have increased by 43 percent and diesel prices by 68 percent since 2014, even though crude oil baskets continue to hover around 106 to 108 dollars per barrel, similar to rates recorded during the beginning of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first term. The opposition leader claimed that excise duties on petrol, which stood at 9.48 rupees per litre in 2014, had climbed to more than 32 rupees per litre during years when international oil prices remained low.
The controversy intensified after recent fuel price revisions reportedly added 7.50 rupees within just 10 days amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, further increasing pressure on household budgets and transportation sectors across the country. Rising fuel costs have also amplified concerns over inflationary impacts on food distribution and essential commodities, with public frustration growing over the cascading effect on daily living expenses.
Responding to the criticism, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the government’s handling of fuel pricing, stating that the Centre absorbed losses worth 1 lakh crore rupees by stabilizing prices for 76 days despite volatility in international markets. The government maintained that measures were taken to shield consumers from sudden global shocks linked to geopolitical instability and crude oil fluctuations.
The latest fuel price debate has once again brought taxation policies, global oil dependency, and inflation management into national focus, turning fuel costs into a major political and economic flashpoint 12 years after the beginning of the Modi government’s first term.
About The Author
Comment List