Bengaluru
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has stated that the state government will take a decision on reducing fuel taxes only after discussions in the cabinet, following the Centre’s recent move to cut excise duty on petrol and diesel. Responding to questions from the media in Bengaluru, the minister clarified that any decision regarding a reduction in state-level excise duty will be taken by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He added that the matter would be discussed in the cabinet if it is formally brought up for consideration.
The statement comes in the wake of a major announcement by the central government, which has reduced excise duty on fuel, offering relief to consumers. As per the announcement, the excise duty on petrol has been significantly reduced, bringing it down from ₹13 per litre to ₹3 per litre. Similarly, the excise duty on diesel, which earlier stood at ₹10 per litre, has now been reduced to zero.
The move is being seen as a response to rising global uncertainties, including the ongoing tensions in the Gulf region, which have impacted fuel prices. The Centre’s decision has raised expectations among the public that state governments may also follow suit by reducing their respective taxes to further ease the burden on consumers.
However, Minister Parameshwara maintained that the Karnataka government has not yet taken a final call on the issue. He reiterated that such financial decisions require careful evaluation and collective discussion at the cabinet level before any announcement is made.
The development has sparked discussions among citizens and political observers, with many urging the state government to consider a similar reduction to provide additional relief. For now, all eyes remain on the upcoming cabinet meeting, where the issue may be deliberated.
