Excise duty cut on fuel by-product of bypoll outcome, says P Chidambaram

Senior Congress leader and former Union minister P Chidambaram said results of the recently concluded by-elections had a by-product in the form of a reduction in excise duties on fuel.

On Wednesday, the Narendra Modi-led central government cut excise duty on petrol and diesel by record amounts of ₹5 and ₹10, respectively, per litre, to bring down their rates from the highest-ever levels.

Chidambaram said the government’s move was a confirmation of the Congress’ charge that fuel prices were high mainly because of high taxes.