CM Vijay slams fuel price hike, urges Centre to roll back increase

CHENNAI: Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Friday criticised the Union government over the increase in petrol and diesel prices, saying the move would impose an additional burden on the common people and trigger a ripple effect across key sectors of the economy.

In a statement, Vijay said the decision by public sector oil marketing companies to raise petrol and diesel prices by nearly Rs 3 per litre each was unjustifiable, particularly at a time when international crude oil prices had fluctuated and oil companies continued to post substantial profits.

“The fuel price hike will severely affect middle-class families, daily wage earners, and economically weaker sections. It will further increase the financial pressure already being faced by the public,” the Chief Minister said.

Highlighting the wider economic implications, Vijay said the increase in fuel prices would inevitably push up transportation costs and lead to a rise in the prices of essential commodities. He cautioned that sectors dependent on fuel consumption, including agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, and small-scale industries, would face fresh challenges.

The Chief Minister also warned that the revision in fuel prices could directly impact trade, logistics, and supply chains, besides contributing to inflationary pressures across the country.

“At a time when people are struggling with rising living expenses, such a decision will only add to public hardship,” he said, urging the Union government to immediately reconsider and withdraw the hike in the larger interest of the people.

Vijay further called upon the Centre to adopt a transparent and people-centric fuel pricing policy to shield consumers from recurring price shocks and ensure economic stability.