Vehicle Owners On Indefinite Strike In Mizoram Protesting Fuel Price Hike
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Itanagar
- Oct 20, 2024
- 285
In response to rising fuel prices, commercial vehicle owners in Mizoram are set to go on an indefinite strike from October 23.
The move comes at a time when petrol prices have risen to Rs 99.24 per litre and diesel to Rs 88.02 per litre since September 1, a significant hike from the previous rates.
The decision to strike reflects growing frustration among vehicle owners over the financial stress caused by these hikes.
Despite Chief Minister Lalduhoma's appeal for patience, the Mizoram Commercial Vehicle Union (MCVU) has resolved to continue with the strike.
This decision was further cemented when the state cabinet on October 17 announced that there would be no reduction in fuel prices, a move that was in stark contrast to the assurances given to the MCVU and various civil society organisations. Initially, the strike was planned for October 14 but was postponed for discussions, but ultimately did not yield the desired result of a reduction in prices.
The government's decision to increase value-added tax (VAT) on petrol and diesel has contributed significantly to the current situation. VAT on petrol has doubled from 5.23 per cent to 10 per cent, while on diesel it has increased from 16.36 per cent to 18 per cent.
Additionally, a new cess of Rs 2 per litre was imposed on both fuels to fund social infrastructure and road maintenance. This fiscal adjustment is now being challenged by the MCVU, which argues that the increased cost is not only burdening commercial vehicle operators but also affecting the general public.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma defended the price hike, saying it was necessary for social infrastructure and road maintenance.
He asserted that despite the hike, fuel prices in Mizoram are lower than the pre-Covid period and are still lower than neighbouring states like Assam, Sikkim and Nagaland.
However, his assurance failed to assuage discontent among vehicle owners.
The MCVU demands include a reduction of Rs 5 per litre for both petrol and diesel, arguing that current prices are unaffordable for commercial vehicle operators.
This call for action is supported by the NGO Coordination Committee (NGOCC), which represents major civil society and student organisations.
The committee had earlier persuaded the MCVU to suspend its strike in anticipation of a favourable decision from the state cabinet, a decision that eventually led to disappointment.
The indefinite strike by commercial vehicle owners in Mizoram highlights the broader issue of fuel affordability and its impact on both the transport sector and the general public.
Despite the government's justification, the decision to maintain high fuel prices has sparked significant unrest, highlighting the challenges of balancing fiscal policies with public welfare.