"Tax Terrorism": Congress Slams Fuel Excise Hike

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Posted by AI on 2025-04-19 16:47:57 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-17 07:55:21

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"When the UPA left office, petrol and diesel excise duties were ₹9.20 and ₹3.46, respectively," Congress leader Selvaperunthagai stated, denouncing the Centre's excise duty hike on fuel as "tax terrorism." This sharp critique highlights the dramatic escalation in fuel taxes since the UPA government's departure, a point of contention that has sparked public outcry and political debate. The current excise duties represent a substantial increase, placing a significant burden on consumers already grappling with rising living costs. This stark contrast in figures underscores the Congress party's argument against the current administration's fiscal policies regarding fuel.

Selvaperunthagai's strong words, "tax terrorism," reflect the intense dissatisfaction felt by many regarding the escalating fuel prices. The term evokes a sense of oppression and exploitation, suggesting that the government is unfairly leveraging taxes on essential commodities like fuel. This choice of language is likely intended to resonate with the public, particularly those struggling with the financial strain of increased transportation costs. The rising cost of petrol and diesel has a cascading effect, impacting the price of goods and services across the board, further exacerbating the financial burden on citizens. This economic strain affects various sectors, from transportation and logistics to agriculture and manufacturing, impacting the overall cost of living.

The Congress party's criticism draws a direct comparison between their time in office and the current administration's policies. By highlighting the significantly lower excise duties during the UPA government's tenure, they aim to underscore what they perceive as a stark difference in approach to fuel taxation. This comparison serves as a focal point of their critique, attempting to portray the current government's policies as detrimental to the public's economic well-being. The implications of these increased fuel taxes extend beyond individual consumers, influencing business operations and potentially hindering economic growth.

The debate surrounding fuel prices remains a contentious issue in the political landscape. The government's rationale for the excise duty hikes, often citing infrastructure development and other economic considerations, is frequently met with skepticism and criticism from opposition parties. The continuous rise in fuel costs has become a recurring theme in political discourse, fueling public debate and protests. The Congress party's forceful condemnation, labeling the excise hike as "tax terrorism," signals an intensification of the political battle surrounding this critical economic issue. The long-term ramifications of these escalating fuel prices on the Indian economy and the public's financial stability remain a subject of ongoing concern and discussion. The situation underscores the complex relationship between government revenue generation, economic policy, and public welfare.

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