Congress workers in Kaithal, Haryana, staged a protest on Tuesday against the recent increase in fuel prices. The demonstrators, led by local party leaders, gathered at the main square and raised slogans against the central and state governments. They accused the ruling parties of imposing heavy taxes on petrol and diesel, which have led to a sharp rise in prices at the pumps.
Protest Details
The protest was organized by the Kaithal District Congress Committee. Party workers held placards and shouted slogans demanding an immediate rollback of the price hike. They argued that the continuous increase in fuel prices is causing immense hardship to the common man, affecting transportation costs and the prices of essential commodities.
Key Demands
- Reduction in excise duty and VAT on petrol and diesel
- Implementation of a fair pricing mechanism
- Immediate relief for the public from rising fuel costs
Local Congress leader Rakesh Kumar addressed the gathering, stating that the government's policies are anti-people. He emphasized that the fuel price hike is a direct attack on the middle class and farmers. The protestors also submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner's office, demanding that the state government reduce VAT on fuel.
Government Response
No immediate response was received from the state government regarding the protest. However, officials indicated that fuel prices are determined by international market trends and taxes are necessary for developmental projects. The Congress party has vowed to continue its agitation until the demands are met.
The protest remained peaceful, with police maintaining a presence to avoid any untoward incidents. Similar protests have been reported in other parts of Haryana and across the country as fuel prices continue to rise.
