By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Petrol prices in Meghalaya would become cheaper by Rs 1.05 per litre from Friday after the State Cabinet decided not to charge Value Added Tax (VAT) on the price of petrol which was recently hiked.
Announcing this on Wednesday, Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma said, “The exemption of VAT would be applicable only on the recent hike of Rs 5.48.”
Petrol prices were hiked by Rs 7.50 on May 23, but following widespread protests, the Government brought down the price by Rs 2.02.
The State Government is supposed to charge Rs 1.05 as VAT on the hike rate of Rs 5.48 per litre.
After detailed deliberations the Cabinet has decided to exempt VAT on the recent hike rate, the Chief Minister said.
The Chief Minister however informed that this reduction in the price of the price would be effective from Friday since the officials would first have to ascertain the stocks of petroleum to ensure that there is no manipulation.
He also informed that the respective deputy commissioners have been instructed to check the stock of fuel.
With the waiver of VAT, the price of petrol in the State will be between Rs 71.37 and Rs 71.50 per litre as the retail selling price of petrol per litre varies from one outlet to another in Meghalaya.