BJP leader Rakesh Jamwal slams Himachal government over new fuel cess

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Shimla, August 12

BJP state chief spokesperson and MLA Rakesh Jamwal criticized the Himachal Pradesh Congress government for imposing a new 60-paise-per-liter cess on petrol and high-speed diesel, alleging that the move would increase the financial burden on the public.

Jamwal said the state government had already raised diesel VAT by around ₹3 per litre in January 2023 and another ₹3 per litre in July 2023. He said diesel VAT was subsequently increased from ₹4.40 to ₹7.40 per litre and then to ₹10.40 per litre.

He said the government has now imposed a 60-paise-per-litre Orphan and Widow Cess on petrol and high-speed diesel from midnight on August 11, 2026. According to him, the move will further increase costs for consumers.

Jamwal also criticized the government for increasing the Additional Goods Tax on cement from ₹11 to ₹16 per bag. He said higher fuel costs would also raise transportation expenses for cement, construction materials, fruits, vegetables, ration and other essential commodities.

He claimed the latest measures would particularly affect farmers, orchardists, transporters, taxi operators, small traders, the middle class and families undertaking construction work.

While supporting welfare measures for orphans and widows, Jamwal said the government should fund such initiatives through better financial management rather than imposing additional taxes on the public.

Calling the Congress government a “government of burden” rather than a “government of happiness”, Jamwal urged it to reconsider the new fuel cess and improve its financial management, rather than repeatedly increasing the burden on Himachal Pradesh residents.