Fuel Price Shock in Punjab: Massive Hike After VAT Increase on Petrol and Diesel

In a move that has sparked outrage across Punjab, fuel prices have surged dramatically after the state government increased the Value Added Tax (VAT) on petrol and diesel. Motorists and businesses alike are feeling the heat as petrol prices have now soared by several rupees per liter, with diesel not far behind. The sudden spike has left residents fuming, with many questioning the timing and necessity of the tax hike. The hike, which was implemented overnight, has pushed petrol prices to unprecedented levels, with some cities in Punjab seeing rates nearing ₹110 per liter. Diesel, a critical fuel for transportation and agriculture in the state, has also been significantly impacted, leading to widespread concern among farmers and transporters. The increase comes at a time when inflation is already weighing heavily on the public, adding fuel to the fire of discontent. Angry reactions poured in from various quarters, with social media platforms flooded with complaints and protests. "This is unbearable. How are we supposed to manage our daily expenses with fuel prices skyrocketing like this?" said a Ludhiana resident. Political leaders, too, have jumped into the fray, slamming the government for imposing additional financial burdens on the people. Opposition parties have called for immediate rollbacks and statewide protests, accusing the ruling party of being disconnected from the struggles of the common man. Transporters, already grappling with rising operational costs, have hinted at possible strikes, which could disrupt essential services and goods supply across the state. Farmers, who rely heavily on diesel-powered machinery, fear that the increase will push input costs higher, threatening the agricultural economy just before the sowing season. With the public reeling from the shock, the Punjab government has yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing the backlash, leaving citizens anxious about the future of fuel prices. Stay tuned for live updates as the situation unfolds, with protests and political debates expected to intensify in the coming days.