Mumbai

Sanjay Raut on Tuesday took a swipe at BJP supporters while criticising the Centre over the latest hike in petrol and diesel prices, saying the increase was “bound to happen”.

Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, the Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP mocked the ruling party’s supporters, remarking that chanting “Jai Shri Ram” would supposedly bring down fuel prices.

“What is new in this? It was bound to happen. If you are a BJP supporter, just chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and the price will reduce by Rs 10. That is the BJP’s mantra — chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and you will get whatever you want,” Raut said.

He also targeted voters who supported the BJP, saying they should now “sit back and relax” while facing the impact of rising prices.

Raut’s comments came after fuel prices witnessed another increase across the country. Petrol and diesel rates were raised by an average of 90 paise per litre on Tuesday. In Delhi, petrol prices climbed from Rs 97.77 to Rs 98.64 per litre, while diesel prices increased from Rs 90.67 to Rs 91.58 per litre.

This is the second hike in less than a week after the Centre raised petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre on May 15.

The recent rise in fuel prices comes amid global energy concerns linked to the ongoing tensions in West Asia and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime oil route. Brent crude prices have remained elevated above USD 100 per barrel following the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.

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Despite the volatility in global oil markets, the Indian government has maintained that the country has adequate fuel reserves and there is no shortage of energy supplies.