Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien on Friday (May 15, 2026) criticised the BJP-led Central government over the hike in petrol and diesel prices, alleging that first they "looted" people's votes and "then they kick you where it hurts".
Petrol and diesel prices hike LIVE: ‘Very small rise, working round-the-clock to ensure no shortage’, says IOCL director
In a post on X, the Rajya Sabha member also asked whether the BJP-led West Bengal government would now reduce Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel since the party is also in power at the Centre and does not need to worry about funds being blocked.
First they loot your vote, then they kick you where it hurts. Pathetically predictable. Diesel and petrol prices hiked.
Will Bengal Govt reduce VAT on petrol & diesel now that there's a Delhi-controlled government which doesn't have to worry about funds being blocked by Centre?
