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“People who use petrol can still afford a higher price, but kerosene and cooking gas is used by the masses, which is why the government gives a subsidy on them. The Centre will have to cut down on petroleum prices, there is no other way,” said Banerjee after returning to Kolkata from Delhi on Sunday.
“We have apprised the Central government of our displeasure over the decision to raise fuel prices and our stand on the issue is very clear,” she added. The Railway Minister had skipped the Empowered Group of Ministers meeting in Delhi that had taken the decision to increase the prices.
In February, after the Union Budget was announced, Banerjee had launched a statewide agitation against the rise in petroleum prices. However, she was conspicuous by her absence during the movement — leaving it largely in the hands of leaders like Madan Mitra. This time, according to sources, Banerjee wants to go soft on the UPA— she didn’t make it clear on whether she will not take a confrontational stand against the Congress.
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%u201Cshe didn%u2019t make it clear on whether she will not take a confrontational stand against the Congress%u201D. Why should she? After all she has to %u201Chunt with the hunter and, at the same time, run with the hare%u201D till she reaches her %u2018Target%u2019 (CM chair of Bengal). There is nothing wrong %u2013 provided she keeps all her promises %u2013 at least for Bengal, if not for the railways