Mizoram’s Transport Turmoil: Commercial Vehicle Owners’ Desperate Cry for Fuel Price Cuts Sparks Indefinite Strike
Commercial vehicle owners in Mizoram have declared an indefinite strike starting October 14 to protest against a recent fuel price hike. The Mizoram Commercial Vehicle Union (MCVU) is demanding that the state government reduce petrol and diesel prices. According to PC Malsawma, the MCVU president, the union has repeatedly urged the government to reconsider the recent Rs 4 per litre increase in fuel prices, but their pleas have been ignored.
Despite meetings with Chief Minister Lalduhoma and Taxation Minister Vanlalthlana, no changes were made. Malsawma noted that the cabinet, following discussions, decided to maintain the existing prices, prompting the union to organize the strike as a last recourse to pressurize the government.
The hike, effective from September 1, has significant repercussions, impacting commercial vehicle operators, vegetable vendors, and the general public. The price of petrol now stands at Rs 99.24 per litre and diesel at Rs 88.02 per litre, reportedly the highest in the northeast region.
A statement from MCVU alleges that the government raised prices to generate an additional Rs 90 crore in revenue. The VAT on petrol was increased from 5.23% to 10%, and on diesel from 16.36% to 18%. Furthermore, a new levy of Rs 2 per litre for both diesel and petrol was imposed for social infrastructure and services cess, with an additional Rs 2 per litre for road maintenance.
Minister Vanlalthlana defended the hike, stating it was aimed at funding social infrastructure and road maintenance projects that benefit the populace. As the strike looms, it underscores ongoing tensions between the government’s financial strategies and the economic strain felt by transport operators and residents alike.
Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/mizoram/story/mizorams-commercial-vehicle-owners-demand-reduction-in-fuel-prices-announce-indefinite-strike-1104086-2024-10-09?utm_source=rssfeed
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