Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday questioned the central government's fuel pricing policy, asking why petrol and diesel prices in India rose even when global crude oil prices declined. Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Kharge pointed out that international crude oil prices had fallen significantly in recent months, yet consumers continued to pay higher rates at the pump.
Kharge's Critique of Fuel Pricing
Kharge said, 'When crude oil prices fell globally, why did petrol and diesel become more expensive in India? The government must explain this anomaly.' He accused the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government of profiteering at the expense of common citizens, noting that the reduction in excise duty on fuels had been minimal and temporary.
Impact on Common People
The senior Congress leader highlighted that high fuel prices directly impact inflation, transportation costs, and the overall cost of living. 'Every increase in petrol and diesel prices burdens the poor and middle class. The government should provide relief by cutting taxes and passing on the benefits of lower crude prices to consumers,' he added.
Government's Response
In response, government spokespersons defended the pricing mechanism, stating that domestic fuel prices are influenced by various factors, including global crude oil prices, exchange rates, and taxes. They argued that the reduction in crude oil prices has not been fully passed on due to the need to maintain revenue for developmental projects.
Kharge's remarks come amid ongoing debates over fuel pricing in India, where petrol and diesel prices have remained high despite fluctuations in global markets. The opposition has consistently demanded a reduction in central excise duty and state-level VAT to ease the burden on consumers.
