Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], April 15 (ANI): As truck owners across Karnataka launched an indefinite strike protesting against the rise in diesel prices and regulatory measures, State Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Tuesday questioned why the Central Government has not faced similar protests.
The strike comes after the Karnataka government increased the sales tax on diesel from 18.44% to 21.17%, resulting in a price hike of ₹2 per litre effective April 1.
“We increased the price by ₹2. Even earlier, we raised it five to six months ago after coming to power. But what about the Central Government? From ₹49 in 2015, diesel is now ₹92. Why is there no protest against them? Why only the State Government?” Reddy asked.
Truckers’ Demands
Truckers have raised several grievances:
- Diesel price hikes.
- A proposed hike in fitness renewal charges for old vehicles.
- Traffic restrictions for heavy vehicles during peak hours in Bengaluru.
- A call to abolish state-run toll plazas.
On the proposed renewal fees, Reddy clarified: “This is not the state’s policy. The increase is still in draft form and was suggested by the Central Government.”
On Traffic Restrictions
Addressing the vehicle entry restrictions into Bengaluru during peak hours, Reddy noted that it was a decision by the police department to manage city congestion.
Regarding tolls, he said, “They want to abolish state toll plazas but not the central ones. Why the double standards?”
Reddy added that the government is open to resolving issues through dialogue, stating, “They are coming for talks—we will sit across and discuss.”
Political Responses
Chief Whip Saleem Ahmed also weighed in, criticizing the Centre’s fuel policy. “During UPA, petrol was ₹55/litre. Now it’s over ₹100. What has the Centre done for Karnataka?” he said.
His remarks come after PM Narendra Modi, during a speech in Yamunanagar, Haryana, warned citizens not to “forget the days of Congress rule,” citing frequent blackouts and stalled infrastructure projects prior to 2014.
As the strike continues, the stand-off between truckers and the state government could disrupt logistics and goods movement across Karnataka if a resolution is not reached soon.
About The Author
