The All-Kerala Consumer Goods Distributors’ Association has warned that if the price hike of petrol and diesel continue further, it will trigger increase in the prices of all essential commodities.
C.E. Chakkunni, president of the association, pointed out that the high excise duty of the Centre and the high sales tax of the Kerala government were the main ‘villains’ behind the high cost of fuel in the State. The Centre imposed around ₹21 on a litre of petrol while the State charged 31.8% of sales tax on a litre. Besides, a cess of 1% of the price as well as a flat ₹1 were imposed on a litre.
Mr. Chakkunni wanted the Centre to bring fuel under the GST regime so that the frequent rise in prices could be checked. He also warned that if the price hike continued, the distributors would be forced not to deliver consumer goods at the doorsteps of traders and consumers.
