Lorry strike not good for farmers, says K’taka Transport Min. Ramalinga Reddy
Bengaluru: Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has said that any kind of strike is not good for the interest of the public and farmers.
After a meeting with representatives of the State Lorry Owners Association, Reddy addressed the media, pointing out that the strike was being held only now despite a decade of rising fuel prices under the central government.
The minister noted that the price of diesel has nearly doubled from ₹49.54 in 2015 to ₹91.05 currently without sparking similar protests during that time. He attributed the current economic strain on state governments to the central government's fiscal policies, arguing that state-level taxation was a forced measure to keep the system afloat. “When the real issue lies at the Centre, why strike now?” he questioned.
Meanwhile, G.R. Shanmukhappa, president of the State Lorry Owners Association, said the group has written multiple times to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah but has yet to receive a response. He reiterated that the association is ready for discussions if the government reaches out.
Their demands include a review of diesel prices, an end to extortion by RTO officials at border checkpoints, and the easing of restrictions on lorries entering Bengaluru, particularly those transporting daily essentials.
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Till 140 cr Indians don't take patriotism as paramount dharma, such incidents will continue: Goyal
Mumbai, Apr 26 (PTI): Union minister Piyush Goyal has said that as long as all 140 crore Indians do not consider patriotism and nationalism as their param dharma, Pahalgam-type incidents will continue to trouble the nation.
He emphasised that such acts would never break India's spirit.
Speaking to reporters here on Friday, Goyal asserted that the conviction of the people would ensure the resumption of tourism in Kashmir soon, and pilgrims will continue their Amarnath Yatra.
He said India's rising global stature was troubling certain forces.
"These incidents represent the desperate last efforts of those powers. It is an unbearable attack, but we will not spare anyone," the Union Commerce Minister added.
"As long as all 140 crore Indians do not consider patriotism and nationalism as their param dharma, such types of incidents will continue to trouble our country. However, India has enough strength to give a befitting response," the minister said.
Highlighting India's success in countering internal threats, Goyal said, "Just as we are rapidly eliminating naxalism, we will similarly defeat terrorism. India's strength and determination are unshakable."
When asked about Pakistani nationals overstaying their visas in India, Goyal said, "We have already announced and informed them to leave the country. No one will be allowed to stay here illegally."
Addressing concerns that the attack might affect tourism in Kashmir, Goyal added, "The people of Bharat have the power, courage, and confidence. Tourism will resume soon, pilgrims will continue their Amarnath Yatra, and Kashmir will remain firmly on the path of progress. No one can stop it."
Twenty-six persons, mostly tourists, were killed when terrorists sprayed bullets on them at a popular meadow in Pahalgam in Kashmir on April 22.
Amid the anguish and anger over the brutal killings, India announced a slew of diplomatic measures, including suspending the Indus Water Treaty, against Pakistan.
