Bengaluru: As the indefinite nationwide truck strike to protest against rise in fuel prices entered the third day on Wednesday, there is no sign of any move to reach a settlement. The truck owners are also protesting against high rates of third-party insurance and other issues.
Chennareddy, president, All-India Confederation of Goods Vehicle Owner's Association told Deccan Chronicle that they will continue their agitation until the demands are met.
The strike began on June 18 and nearly 70% truckers, excluding those delivering emergency commodities, are taking part.
“Diesel price was at Rs 53 in 2013, when the international crude price was $110 per barrel, but now, when the crude price is at $70 per barrel, the diesel price is Rs 74 in Karnataka. It is much higher in other states and this is not acceptable,” Chennareddy said.
He criticised Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for his remark that he has no intention of lowering the taxes as that will upset his balance sheet. He said If the government has to impose taxes then it must be done evenly for all sectors.
“We are paying nearly Rs 70 for a litre of diesel, out of which Rs 38 goes for tax. We are also required to pay an exorbitant insurance premium amounting up to Rs 48,000, which was a mere Rs 3,200 twelve years ago. Such a large amount of tax and premium makes it impossible for us to repay our loans to banks and financiers. This has resulted in a rise in cases of vehicles being confiscated by the financiers.”
