Daijiworld Media Network - Thiruvananthapuram (SP)

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 17: Alphons Kannanthanam, union minister, commented that people who own vehicles are not starving and can afford to buy their fuel. He passed this remark when trying to justify the government's stand over frequent hike in fuel prices for which it has been getting flak from people, particularly vehicle owners.

"Just think who buys petrol. Obviously someone who owns a two, three or four-wheeler. A person who owns vehicle cannot be starving. People who have the means to meet the cost of things have to foot the bill. It is as simple as that," he added.

The minister added that the government's major concern is to achieve welfare of neglected classes of people in rural areas who need electricity, houses, and toilets.

"We need funds for these purposes and you can be rest assured that the government is not robbing this money from you. It is used for welfare activities," he clarified.

The minister said that taxes are levied to provide facilities to the poor. He added that the government has to tax those who can afford to pay, to improve the living conditions of poor people and enable them to live a dignified life.

It may be noted that people are angry over steep hike in prices of petrol and diesel since the government announced daily revision of fuel prices.