Not financial sacrifice by govt, but return of taxpayers’ money: Oppn calls excise duty cut 'politically driven'

IANS | March 27, 2026 1:29 PM

New Delhi, March 27 (IANS) The Congress on Friday said that the government’s revenue ultimately comes from the people’s pockets, asserting that any reduction in excise duty is not a financial sacrifice by the government but a return of taxpayers’ money. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP also questioned the intent behind the move, with some calling it politically-motivated.

Bengal polls: Basanti violence was result of Mamata Banerjee’s provocation, says BJP leader

IANS | March 27, 2026 12:59 PM

Kolkata, March 27 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday claimed that the violence and clashes at Basanti in South 24 Parganas district in West Bengal in which a police sub-inspector of police was also thrashed by a group of miscreants allegedly linked to the ruling Trinamool Congress was a result of the provocative statements from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at an election campaign rally earlier in the day.

No one should face any problem: Kiren Rijiju assures no lockdown, hails PM Modi’s fuel duty cut

IANS | March 27, 2026 11:51 AM

New Delhi, March 27 (IANS) Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday reassured that there is no lockdown in the country and urged state governments to prevent hoarding and ensure smooth fuel supply while praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the government’s decision to slash excise duties on petrol and diesel, calling it a historic step to protect common citizens amid global uncertainties.