UditVani, Jamshedpur: Jharkhand is witnessing growing dissent over reports suggesting the state government’s plan to impose a cess on petrol and diesel. The opposition, led by the BJP, has strongly criticized the move, terming it “anti-people” and “suicidal.”
Media Reports Fuel Controversy
According to media reports, the state government is considering introducing a cess on petroleum products to augment its revenue. If implemented, this could result in a price hike of ₹2 to ₹3 per liter for petrol and diesel.
State Finance Minister Responds
State Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore addressed the issue during a media interaction on Thursday. He clarified that no such proposal is currently under consideration. However, he added that future decisions would depend on prevailing circumstances.
Interestingly, Kishore pointed out that the Union government itself is contemplating a tax on aviation fuel, as discussed during the recent GST Council meeting in Jaisalmer. He assured that the Jharkhand government would oppose any such central proposal.
BJP Labels Proposal as Anti-People
BJP state president Babulal Marandi has alleged that the government is planning to increase fuel prices under the guise of revenue generation. He accused the administration of burdening the public to meet Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s directives for increasing state revenue.
Marandi described the proposal as anti-people and urged the government to withdraw it immediately, warning that it could trigger inflation and worsen the financial strain on households.
Social Media Outburst Against CM
Taking to social media, Marandi criticized Chief Minister Hemant Soren for his governance choices. He wrote, “Your impractical decision will severely impact common people. From the proposed electricity tariff hike to hints of increased fuel prices, the public now realizes the deception behind your election promises.”
He further stated that the rush to generate revenue is creating widespread dissatisfaction among the populace.
Call for Collective Action
Expressing hope for a united front, Marandi appealed to public representatives to set aside political differences and pressure the government to reverse the decision. He emphasized that such measures could have devastating consequences for the average citizen, urging the administration to reconsider its priorities.
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