Jaipur, May 15 : Congress leaders on Friday slammed the Narendra Modi-led government over petrol and diesel price hike, alleging that the decision was deliberately deferred until assembly elections were over.
Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra mocked the prime minister for embarking on a five-nation trip while the country was facing fuel crisis.
“From today, the ‘mehngai man’ (inflation man) has left for five days of ‘national contemplation’ in foreign valleys, leaving the public to make the rest of the contribution in the national interest,” Dostara said, referring to the prime minister.
“Before leaving, he (Modi) explained the new economic policy: if petrol and diesel become expensive, do not get your tank filled. Contribute Rs 3 on every litre and make the country self-reliant,” he said.
Former deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot also criticised the move, alleging that fuel prices were intentionally kept unchanged during the elections.
“It was already decided — take votes first, then raise prices,” Pilot said.
“Immediately after the elections ended in five states, petrol and diesel prices were increased by Rs 3 per litre. Earlier, prices were not raised to attract voters, but once the elections were over, the burden was passed onto the public,” Pilot alleged.
The prices of diesel and petrol have been raised by Rs 3. The hike followed Modi’s call to save fuel amid supply disruptions linked to the West Asia crisis.
