The Centre is not in a position to forgo easy revenues at a time when it needs huge funds to fight the pandemic and revive the economy, a government official said on Tuesday, a remark that came against the backdrop of growing demands to reduce taxes in order to provide relief to consumers.
On Tuesday, petrol price crossed Rs.85 a litre in Delhi, hitting a new high for the fifth time in less than two weeks since January 7 even as India’s average crude oil import price softened a bit, according to official data.
“Now, there is no pressure of inflation as retail inflation eased to a 15-month low, at 4.59%. Hence the government would like to wait till budget on reducing excise duty on fuel. However, a final decision will be taken by the competent authority,” the official added, requesting anonymity.
