BJP attacks Karnataka govt over fuel price hike

The BJP on Saturday accused Congress of inadequate financial management in Karnataka after petrol prices were hiked in the state. It also announced a protest against the hike on Monday.

The Karnataka government announced a price hike of petrol by Rs 3 and diesel by Rs 3.02 on Saturday. The move attracted strong reactions by citizens and opposition alike.



BJP spokesperson S Prakash criticised the Congress government for increasing the prices right after the elections. "People were expecting Rs 8,000 into their accounts by Rahul Gandhi, on the contrary, they have been hugely burdened by petroleum products," he said.

BJP leader B Y Vijayendra said, "Faced by defeat in Lok Sabha polls, the chief minister is not ready to accept that the financial situation of the state has deteriorated, but the hike in fuel prices proves it. The government is unable to run the administration because of guarantees, they are unable to get proper resources. The government should withdraw this decision (of fuel price hike). On Monday, we are going to organise protests across Karnataka.”


The price hike comes after the government’s decision to adjust sales tax on petroleum products, said Petroleum Dealers Association. The intention behind the move from the Karnataka finance department is to increase the state’s revenue. However, the decision will impact several industries, including transportation, and goods distribution, potentially resulting in higher expenses for consumers