It is a 'Dharam Sankat', Says FM Nirmala Sitharaman when Asked About Fuel Price Reduction

NEW DELHI: With the constant hike in the price of petrol and diesel, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman answered its a 'dharam sankat' when asked about petrol and diesel price reduction.

"I won't be able to say 'when'.. it is a 'dharam sankat' (dilemma)...," says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Ahmedabad, after being asked when would the Central Government reduce fuel prices," said the minister.

Further, the minister stated that both the Centre and states should talk with each other over reducing taxes on petrol and diesel whose prices have risen sharply in recent weeks.

Notably, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das also said there is a need for coordinated action between the Centre and state governments to reduce taxes on petrol and diesel prices. "There is a need for coordinated action between the Centre and the States because there are inherent taxes levied by both," the Governor said, adding that "calibrated reduction of taxes is important."

Meanwhile, just ahead of the West Bengal election, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee rode pillion on an electric scooter in protest against the surging fuel prices in the country.

Helmet clad Mamata was seen sitting behind state minister Firhad Hakim during the journey from Hazra More to the state secretariat. She also put on a placard hung around her in protest against the rise in fuel prices. The placard, bearing a demonic face, read: "What is in your mouth? Petrol price hike. Diesel price hike. Cooking gas price hike"

Mamata slammed the ruling government who according to her only make false promises and have done nothing to bring down the fuel prices. She also emphasized the difference in petrol prices when the Modi Government came to power and the present situation.

The apex body of road transporters, AITWA has extended their support to the nationwide strike and called for a 'Chakka jam' tomorrow on February 26, against the hike in fuel prices. They further demanded to replace the E-Way bill with an e-invoice.

Also Read: The Balakot Air Stike: The 2nd Anniversary of India's Successful Operation

Also Watch: MLA Suren Phukan's push for development in Digboi