Hike in VAT on petrol, diesel to cripply state economy more : Chugh
Chandigarh, September 6, 2024 – BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh today blasted the Bhagwant Singh Mann led AAP government for bringing Punjab on verge of financial bankruptcy.
In a statement Chugh strongly condemned the AAP government’s decision to increase VAT on petrol and diesel in Punjab and put an extra burden of around Rs 3000 crores on the people.
Making amendments in the power subsidy to the urban consumers the AAP government pranks on subsidies stand starkly exposed.
Chugh said a hike in prices of petrol and diesel would further cripple the economy as it would have a cascading effect on other fields like transport.
He pointed out that the additional ₹3,000 crore burden is a major setback for the state’s economy. Instead of focusing on developmental projects and providing relief to the common people, the government is resorting to measures that further strain the state’s finances. This, he said, reflects the deteriorating economic condition of Punjab. Chugh emphasized the need for a clear and effective economic policy that prioritizes the welfare of the people over superficial initiatives.
Chugh further stated that the withdrawal of the power subsidy by the Punjab government will drive industrial opportunities to other states due to increased power costs. This shift benefits other states while depriving Punjab of employment opportunities, increased revenue, and industrial growth.
He contrasted this with Prime Minister Modi’s people-centric and pro-development policies, which, according to Chugh, are benefiting Punjab by developing industrial corridors. In contrast, he said, the state government is steering Punjab in a regressive direction.
Chugh also cited the recent increase in motor vehicle tax by the AAP government, which he argued has made cars and two-wheelers unaffordable for the middle class and economically weaker sections.
He criticized the state’s financial management, claiming that it is so poor that bankruptcy seems imminent. Additionally, he pointed to the AAP government’s failure to maintain law and order, citing rising incidents of robbery, theft, murder, and drug abuse among the youth, which he believes is pushing Punjab towards a state of emergency.
Chugh further noted that there is widespread public outcry across Punjab regarding the government’s handling of the state’s finances. The additional financial burden, he argued, is unjustified and will only lead to more hardship for the common people. The growing demand for better governance and accountability in Punjab, he said, underscores the urgent need for the government to reconsider its policies and focus on providing tangible relief and development.
