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Rijiju Hails Modi's Fuel Duty Cut as Public Interest Move Amid Crisis

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju praised the Central government's decision to reduce excise duty on petrol and diesel, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking a significant step during a difficult geo-political period. The decision comes amid the West Asia crisis, which has disrupted global fuel supplies via the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for India's oil imports. Rijiju reiterated the PM's advice against panic buying and stated that strict action would be taken against hoarding to ensure adequate supplies. The government has also imposed a windfall tax on diesel exports while maintaining that fuel supplies across the country remain stable.

Key Points: Centre Cuts Fuel Duty, Rijiju Thanks PM Modi for Public Step

  • Centre cuts excise duty on petrol and diesel
  • Move linked to West Asia crisis disrupting fuel supplies
  • Rijiju says PM acted in public interest
  • Govt warns against panic buying and hoarding
  • Windfall tax imposed on diesel exports
2 min read

"PM has shown how to act in public's interest": Kiren Rijiju welcomes excise duty cut on petrol, diesel

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju welcomes excise duty cut on petrol & diesel, says PM Modi has shown how to act in public interest during West Asia crisis.

"On behalf of the public, I would like to thank the Prime Minister for taking such a big step in this difficult time. - Kiren Rijiju"

New Delhi, March 27

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday praised the Centre's decision to reduce the excise duty on petrol and diesel amid the West Asia crisis, saying that the step shows how to act in the interest of the people during difficult times.

Speaking to the reporter here, Rijiju thanked the Prime Minister, saying that the move was not easy considering the geo-political scenario, with the conflict in West Asia triggering a global disruption in the import and export of fuel supplies.

"On behalf of the public, I would like to thank the Prime Minister for taking such a big step in this difficult time. This was not an easy step to take, yet he has shown how to act in the interest of the public. Our MPs will also welcome this step and thank the PM today as the Parliament reconvenes today," he said.

He further reiterated that the Prime Minister has advised against panic buying or hoarding of the fuel. Strict action will be taken against the hoarding to ensure fuel supplies remain adequate for everyone.

"The PM had clearly stated that there should be no panic buying or hoarding. In the all-party meeting, even Opposition MPs appreciated the govt in a way, and also assured that they would support the government's decisions. The state governments have been directed to take strict action against those who indulge in hoarding to ensure no shortage of gas and fuel," he added.

Rijiju's remarks come after the Central government reduced excise duty on petrol to Rs 3 per litre and brought it down to zero for diesel, as per a Gazette notification issued under the provisions of the Central Excise Act, 1944. Additionally, a windfall tax of Rs 21.5 per litre has been imposed on diesel exports.

The decision follows escalating tensions in West Asia, particularly the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has led to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz--a crucial route that handles nearly one-fifth of the world's crude oil supply. Before the crisis, India sourced around 12-15% of its oil imports through this route.

While the duty cut is expected to ease pressure on oil marketing companies facing losses due to surging crude prices, retail prices of petrol and diesel have remained unchanged so far.

The government has maintained that fuel supplies across the country remain stable.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who commutes daily from Noida to Gurgaon, any reduction in fuel cost is a blessing. The global situation is worrying, and it's good to see proactive steps. The warning against hoarding is also very necessary.
A
Aditya G
While the duty cut is welcome, the article says retail prices haven't changed yet. What's the point if we don't see it at the pump? The government needs to ensure OMCs reduce prices immediately. This feels like an announcement for the sake of it.
P
Priya S
Good move. The Strait of Hormuz blockade is a serious issue for our energy security. Reducing duty shows the government is thinking of the common man's budget. Hope the opposition also supports this in the true spirit of 'nation first'.
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Karthik V
The windfall tax on diesel exports is a smart parallel move. It will discourage companies from exporting for higher profits and keep supply within India. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
M
Meera T
Appreciate the step, but this is a temporary fix. We need a long-term strategy for fuel prices. So much depends on global politics. What about pushing for more electric vehicles and renewable energy? That's the future.

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