BJP Leader Ajay Rana Criticizes Himachal Pradesh Government Over Fuel Tax Hike, Demands Immediate Relief for Citizens.
Shimla:
BJP State Spokesperson Ajay Rana has strongly criticized the Himachal Pradesh Congress government for imposing heavy taxes and cess on petrol and diesel, calling it a direct attack on the common people’s pockets. In a statement released from Mandi, Rana said the government’s recent fuel levies are worsening inflation and putting a severe burden on households, farmers, transporters, and small businesses.
Rana highlighted that the state government, led by Chief Minister Sukhu, has added up to Rs. 5 per litre in additional cess on petrol and diesel, causing a continuous rise in fuel prices. “Due to these measures, fuel prices in Himachal Pradesh have become higher than neighboring states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh, adversely affecting trade and transportation in border districts,” he said.
The BJP leader explained that the increased transport costs are directly driving up the prices of essential goods like fruits, vegetables, and milk, passing the burden of inflation directly onto the citizens. He further accused the Congress government of using repeated tax hikes to cover its economic mismanagement while failing to implement any substantial measures to provide relief to the public.
Modi Government’s Measures Offer Relief Amid Global Challenges
Rana contrasted the state government’s policies with those of the central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that despite global oil price fluctuations and economic challenges, the Modi administration has worked to diversify energy sources and shield citizens from international inflation. “While fuel prices have doubled in many countries, the Indian government has taken timely measures to provide relief to common consumers, maintaining economic stability even amid global uncertainties,” he stated.
Congress Fails to Fulfill Election Promises
Rana also raised questions about Congress’ unfulfilled election promises. He cited that the Rs. 1,500 scheme for women remained limited in scope, the promise of 300 free electricity units was incomplete, and the pledge to create 5 lakh jobs exists only on paper. He warned that the state’s flawed economic policies are pushing Himachal Pradesh toward a financial crisis, with the government placing the burden of its failures on the public.
Concluding his statement, Ajay Rana demanded that the Himachal Pradesh government immediately withdraw the additional taxes and cess on petrol and diesel to provide much-needed relief to the people struggling under rising inflation.
