I agree with your edit “Right call, wrong handling” (May 25). The BJP and Left parties’ call for a Bharat bandh on May 31 to protest the increase in fuel prices will not solve anything. This is merely a gimmick and will help the Opposition ride the popular sentiment against the steep increase in the price of petroleum products. If one takes a close look at the sales tax levied on petrol in all the states, including those ruled by the BJP or other regional parties, one can immediately see the double standard that these parties practise. Though they conveniently blame the central government for every price increase, they merrily benefit from the increase in tax revenues from such hikes.
Instead of calling for a bandh, which adversely impacts our daily life, there is an urgent need to discuss the taxation policies for petroleum products with state governments. It is also imperative to debate on whether ad valorem duties should be replaced by specific duties and taxes. It is not wise to take decisions on an ad hoc basis, especially when it concerns such a crucial matter as fuel prices. Also, people need to be informed about our delicate fiscal situation, the impact of rising crude oil prices and the depreciating rupee, and the effect that these have on policy-making
Narendra M Apte, Pune
