The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Saturday condemned the State BJD Government for the two-per cent hike in the VAT on petrol and diesel and the decision of the Union Government to increase railway passenger fare and freight charges.
leading a demonstration here at Master Canteen Square party, AAP State convenor Nishikanta Mohapatra said, “While inflation is at a five-month high and is predicted to only go higher and the State Government is taking credit for a surplus Budget, this oil tax increase is most unfortunate and unwarranted. Given the crucial role of diesel in transportation and agriculture, it will certainly add to the inflation that is already breaking the backbone of the common man.”
He also slammed the Union Government for its decision to hike the rail fare and fright charges and said the move is anti-people.
“We urge the State and Union Governments to withdraw the hike in VAT on petrol and diesel and rail and freight charges,” said Mohapatra.