DMK president M. Karunanidhi on Sunday advised the Centre against taking any decision, including divestment of public sector undertakings, in the name of generating revenue that would severely affect the poor and middle class.
In a statement here, he said the Centre should not go ahead with its proposals to cut the subsidy for sugar meant for public distribution system.
“There are reports the government is considering a proposal to cut the subsidy. At present sugar is being sold for Rs 13.50 per kg. If the subsidy is withdrawn, the price will increase to Rs 25.17 per kg. It will also result in steep increase in the price of sugar in the open market,” Mr Karunanidhi said.
The DMK leader said the Centre should also give up its plans to sell the shares of public sector undertaking. “It should not implement any scheme in the name of generating revenue that will severely affect the poor and middle class.” He also wanted the State government to bring down the VAT on diesel to give relief to the people.
“When the DMK was in power and whenever the price of petroleum products were increased, Ms Jayalalithaa would harp on reducing VAT. It seems her advice is only for others and not for her government,” he said.
