Shivakumar Calls Fuel Price Cut an “Election Gimmick”, Alleges Post-Poll Hike

Bengaluru, March 2026 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday criticised the Centre’s recent move to reduce fuel prices, calling it an “election gimmick” and alleging that petrol and diesel rates would be increased again once elections conclude.

Speaking to the media at the KPCC office and later at his residence, Shivakumar claimed that such reductions were temporary measures aimed at influencing voters. He said the Central government had followed a similar pattern in the past, lowering prices during elections and raising them afterward. According to him, the current move should be seen in that context rather than as a long-term relief measure.

He further alleged that the Centre continues to collect substantial revenue through fuel taxes, estimating that nearly Rs 1,000 crore is being generated daily. Questioning the utilisation of these funds, Shivakumar said the benefits were not reaching the common people. He also referred to the Congress party’s earlier “100 Not Out” campaign, launched to protest rising fuel prices, and claimed that the current pricing decisions were being made to favour select companies.

Highlighting global developments, Shivakumar pointed out that international crude oil prices have risen, but criticised the Centre for what he described as uneven distribution of fuel supplies. Referring to shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, he alleged that southern states such as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu were not receiving adequate attention. He questioned why fuel shipments were directed elsewhere instead of being distributed evenly across regions.

He also accused the Centre of neglecting South India, particularly during election periods in states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala. According to him, the alleged imbalance in fuel supply reflected a broader pattern of regional bias.

Shivakumar raised concerns over past fuel pricing trends, noting that petrol and diesel prices have seen a steady rise over the years. He pointed out that even when global crude prices were relatively low, domestic fuel prices remained high. Comparing earlier rates with current levels, he questioned the consistency of the Centre’s pricing policy.

He also criticised the government’s communication strategy, referring to past promotional campaigns at petrol stations and questioning their disappearance. According to him, such messaging did not align with the realities faced by consumers dealing with rising costs.

Responding to questions about the recent reduction in excise duty, Shivakumar reiterated that the move was politically motivated and not aimed at providing genuine relief. He also mentioned that private players had increased fuel prices despite the reduction, further complicating the situation for consumers.

When asked whether the Karnataka government would consider reducing state taxes on fuel, Shivakumar said the matter would be discussed at an appropriate time, without offering any immediate commitment.