KTR Slams Centre Over Petrol Price Hike, US Tariffs

BRS working president K T Rama Rao today lashed out at the BJP-led Union government over the recent hike in petrol prices, calling it "unusual" given the declining global crude oil rates.

"While petrol prices are falling worldwide, the Modi government is increasing petrol and gas prices," KTR said.

He said that the hike would trigger a sharp rise in prices of essential commodities and transportation costs, severely impacting common citizens and burdening the public at a time of economic strain.

"A Rs 2 cess hike on petrol, a gas cylinder price increase, and a stock market crash - all in one day - mark a Modi hat-trick," he quipped. "Are these the achhe din that the BJP promised?"

He added that the government cut prices only ahead of elections to gain publicity.

KTR also criticised the Centre's strategy of increasing fuel prices through cesses rather than taxes, calling it a move to centralise funds.

Turning his attention to international trade, KTR slammed the Central government for its silence on the new US tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. He said that the tariffs would cause major losses to Telangana, particularly in the pharmaceutical and IT sectors - two key drivers of the State's economy.

"The Prime Minister, Finance Minister and Commerce Minister have not spoken a word. We demanded a debate in Parliament, but it has been ignored," he said. "Public wealth is eroding due to the US trade policies and flawed domestic strategies. The government has no answers, no policy and no direction on this issue."