Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay launched a scathing attack on the central government on Friday over the recent hike in fuel prices, demanding an immediate rollback of the decision. He termed the price increase as an additional burden on the common man, especially the poor and middle class.
CM Vijay's Strong Reaction
Addressing a press conference in Chennai, Vijay said that the fuel price hike was an insensitive move by the Centre, which would have a cascading effect on the prices of essential commodities. He accused the central government of prioritizing revenue over the welfare of the people. The Chief Minister stated that the state government would explore all possible legal and administrative measures to provide relief to the people from the price rise.
Impact on Common Man
Vijay highlighted that the increase in fuel prices would directly impact transportation costs, leading to a rise in the prices of food items, vegetables, and other daily necessities. He urged the Centre to reconsider its decision and work towards stabilizing prices. The Chief Minister also called for a reduction in excise duties and other taxes imposed on petroleum products to ease the burden on consumers.
Political Reactions
The opposition parties in Tamil Nadu have also condemned the fuel price hike, with many supporting the Chief Minister's demand for a rollback. Political analysts believe that this issue could become a major point of contention in the upcoming elections. The central government, however, has defended the price hike, citing global crude oil prices and the need to generate revenue for development projects.
Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu government is considering a reduction in state-level taxes on fuel to provide some relief, but officials admit that the impact of the central hike cannot be fully offset. The Chief Minister has assured the people that his government will do everything possible to minimize the burden and has called for a united political front to pressure the Centre into reversing the decision.
