Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has strongly demanded that the Odisha government immediately reduce Value Added Tax (VAT) on petrol, diesel, and cooking gas to provide relief to the common people amid rising global uncertainties.
In a statement issued here on Friday, BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty said the ongoing tensions in West Asia involving Israel, the US, and Iran have triggered fears of a global fuel crisis, creating panic among the public regarding availability and prices of essential fuels.
He noted that although the state and central governments have assured no shortage, public anxiety persists. Mohanty pointed out that the Centre recently cut excise duty by Rs 10 per litre on petrol and diesel, but the move appears precautionary rather than a clear policy decision.
Criticising the state government, Mohanty said the Chief Minister’s mere welcome of the Centre’s decision is insufficient. “If the government is truly concerned for the people, it must take concrete action by lowering the high VAT rates,” he added.
Mohanty highlighted that Odisha levies one of the highest VAT rates in the country at 28% on fuel, compared to around 25% in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, and about 19% in Rajasthan. He recalled that the BJP, when in opposition, had repeatedly demanded VAT reduction on these commodities.
The BJD urged the Odisha government to go beyond routine responses and slash VAT on petrol, diesel, and cooking gas in the larger interest of the public.
