Shimla: In a move described as a significant relief measure, BJP Himachal Pradesh President Rajeev Bindal on Thursday welcomed the Union Government’s decision to sharply cut excise duty on petrol and diesel, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritizing public welfare.
Citing the Gazette Notification issued on March 26, 2026, Bindal said excise duty on petrol has been reduced from ₹13 per litre to ₹3, while diesel has been brought down from ₹10 per litre to zero. He termed the decision “historic and people-centric,” stating that it would directly benefit nearly 1.4 billion citizens and help ease inflationary pressure across sectors.
According to Bindal, the decision comes amid global uncertainty and rising crude oil prices, particularly due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. He emphasized that despite external challenges, the Centre has acted decisively to shield consumers from price shocks. He also pointed out that strategic export duties—₹21.5 per litre on diesel and ₹29.5 per litre on aviation turbine fuel—have been introduced to maintain domestic supply stability.
However, the development has triggered political friction in Himachal Pradesh. Bindal alleged that while the Centre is reducing the tax burden, the Congress-led state government is considering imposing a cess of up to ₹5 per litre on fuel. He claimed this would offset the relief provided by the Centre and increase financial pressure on the public.
Highlighting the potential impact, Bindal said farmers, transporters, traders, and orchardists could be adversely affected. He further alleged that the state has already collected substantial revenue through existing taxes on diesel.
Calling the contrast “clear,” Bindal said the BJP would strongly oppose any additional burden on citizens and raise the issue both on the streets and in the Assembly.