No relief in petroleum prices in MP at present

Bhopal, Jun 10 (UNI) No relief from steep petroleum prices is in sight at present in the BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh with no decision being taken in this regard during the meeting of Cabinet sub-committee, formed to look into Value Added Tax (VAT) issues, held here today, official sources said.

The meeting was chaired by Commercial Tax Minister Babulal Gaur.

Finance Minister Raghavji was also present.

A task force -- constituted to look into reducing state taxes following hike in petroleum prices by the Centre -- was expected to submit its report soon. A decision would be taken on the basis of recommendations of the task force.

Sources said Commercial Tax Ministers and Finance Ministers from BJP-ruled states would meet on June 16 over providing relief to people from petroleum prices. A uniform decision is likely to be taken during that meeting.

Abolishing 9.5 per cent entry tax on cooking gas would put an additional annual burden of Rs 105 crore on the state exchequer.

Mr Gaur said the government wanted to take a decision in the welfare of people.

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