GUWAHATI: Following the declaration of Lok Sabha election results, the Assam government hiked the prices on petrol and diesel in the state.
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the move, stating that despite the increase, fuel prices in Assam remain significantly lower compared to opposition-ruled states like West Bengal.
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Effective from Thursday (June 06) midnight, the Assam government raised the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petrol and diesel, resulting in a rise of Rs 1.01 per litre for petrol and Rs 1.02 per litre for diesel.
This adjustment has drawn criticism from the public in Assam, evident in expressions of discontent at fuel stations.
However, CM Sarma emphasized that the decision was necessary, considering the comparative affordability of fuel prices in Assam.
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Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the prior reduction of petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre before the Lok Sabha election.
He attributed the hike in petrol and diesel prices in Assam to factors such as flooding and other exigencies in the state, which compelled an increase of just over Re 1.
According to the Assam chief minister, an examination of the fuel rates reveals a substantial difference of over Rs 7 in favour of Assam.
“In comparison to Bengal, petrol and diesel are notably cheaper in Assam,” CM Sarma asserted.