Newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay on Friday launched his first attack on the BJP-led central government after taking office, slamming the decision to increase petrol prices following the conclusion of assembly elections in five states. He demanded an immediate rollback of the price hike, calling it 'unacceptable,' according to PTI reports.
Price Hike Details
Petrol and diesel prices were raised by Rs 3 per litre each on Friday, driven by a recent surge in global crude oil prices. The increase comes just 16 days after assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal concluded. Fuel rates had remained unchanged during the polling period despite a sharp rise in global oil prices due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Opposition Reactions
The opposition, including the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, strongly condemned the move, stating, 'The mistake is the Modi government's, the public will pay the price. The Rs 3 jolt has already arrived, the rest of the recovery will be done in instalments.' This price revision is the first since April 2022, except for a one-time reduction of Rs 2 per litre on both petrol and diesel in March 2024 ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
Background
Fuel prices had largely remained stable since April 2022, with no increases recorded until this recent hike. The government had previously cut prices by Rs 2 per litre in March 2024 as a pre-election measure. The latest increase reflects the volatility in global crude markets, which have been impacted by geopolitical tensions and supply concerns.
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's criticism adds to the growing chorus of opposition parties demanding relief for consumers. The central government has yet to respond to the demands for a rollback.
