petrol outlets strike work in UP

Lucknow, Dec 26 (UNI) About 4000 petroleum outlets in Uttar Pradesh went on an indefinite strike from today, demanding an immediate reduction of sales tax on petroleum products and make it on par with other adjoining states.

Uttar Pradesh Petroleum Traders Association has called for an indefinite strike in the state from 0600 hrs this morning after the Mulayam Singh Yadav government failed to accept their demands.

The Association is demanding reduction of tax on petrol and diesel from 21 to 12 per cent like it is being charged in Delhi, Haryana, Uttaranchal and Punjab along with other states.

Association president B N Shukla told UNI here today that about 4000 outlets of all the oil companies in the state were participating the strike.

''The strike will benefit the consumers as if the state government concedes our demand then petrol and diesel prices in the state will be cheaper by at least Rs 3.50 per litre,'' Mr Shukla said.

He said all the petroleum outlets in the state except for those which are owned by the oil companies were extending support to the strike and there is no question of withdrawing the strike till the state government accepts their demands.

At present there are 35 petroleum outlets in the state owned by the Public sector oil companies, of which two are in the state capital.

Criticising the political parties for not supporting the agitation which is in the interest of the public, the association president said traders would not compromise on the issue with the state government.

''We are forced to take up the path of agitation as our outlets were suffering huge losess mostly in the bordering areas of Delhi and Haryana due to cheap petroleum products there,'' he said.

Mr Shukla also blamed the state officials of coming in the way of the Chief Minister to accept the genuine demand of the association.

'' we have assured the CM that the revenues of the government will not affect after decreasing the rate of taxes as the sale will go up'', he said.

Meanwhile, in the state capital,long queques was witnessed at the two company owned petroleum outlets while the other petrol pumps did a brisk business till late last night due to the strike from today.

UNI MB YA GC1225