CHENNAI: PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss on Friday called on oil marketing companies to immediately withdraw the recent hike in petrol, diesel and natural gas prices. The demand comes after oil firms increased fuel rates by about Rs 3 per litre and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) by about Rs 2 per kg, citing a surge in global crude prices triggered by the ongoing West Asia conflict. Following the revision, fuel prices in Chennai have reached new heights. Petrol price has increased to Rs 103.90 per litre, while diesel Rs 95.47 per litre and natural gas (CNG) to Rs 91.50 per kg.
In a statement, Anbumani stated that while the geopolitical situation is complex, the resulting burden on the Indian public is "unacceptable." Anbumani argued that the government and oil companies should absorb these temporary losses rather than passing the burden to the public, who are already grappling with high fuel taxes. Pointing out that fuel hikes will have a "cascading effect" on the economy, Anbumani warned that the increase in transport costs would inevitably lead to a rise in the prices of essential commodities, including vegetables and food grains. "This price hike will cause a severe crisis in the lives of the poor and middle-class people," he said.
The Union government and oil companies must respect the expectations of the people and provide relief by rolling back these prices immediately, he said. He urged the government to use strategic reserves or adjust excise duties to stabilise the market until the conflict subsides and global supply routes are reopened. The PMK leader emphasized that the government has the tools to mitigate the impact and should act swiftly to prevent further economic distress. He also called for a long-term strategy to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, such as boosting domestic production and accelerating the adoption of renewable energy sources. The recent price revision has sparked widespread criticism from opposition parties and consumer groups, who argue that the government is failing to protect citizens from global price volatility. Meanwhile, oil companies have defended the hike, stating that it reflects the rise in international crude prices and that they have limited room to absorb costs. However, Anbumani's demand for a rollback has gained traction among political circles, with several parties joining the call for immediate relief. As of now, the government has not responded to the demand, but the issue is expected to be raised in the upcoming parliamentary session. Consumers in Chennai and across the state are bracing for higher expenses, particularly in transportation and household budgets, as the festive season approaches.
