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‘Unacceptable’, says Tamil Nadu CM Vijay on fuel price hike, demands immediate rollback
On May 15, 2026, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay condemned a ₹3 per litre hike in petrol and diesel as 'unacceptable' and urged an immediate rollback. The CM tied the rise to the post-poll period, warned of inflationary effects on the poor and middle class, and highlighted potential impacts on small businesses and the broader economy, while noting global crude prices have surged.
Why It Matters
The price hike directly affects everyday living costs for low- and middle-income households and small businesses, and it illustrates the political tension surrounding national fuel policy and its local economic impact.
Timeline
5 Events
Petrol and diesel prices at highest level since May 2022
May 15, 2026
The article states that petrol and diesel prices are now at their highest level since May 2022.
Global crude prices rise amid Middle East tensions
May 15, 2026
The article notes that global crude oil prices have surged more than 50 percent since February 28 due to US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran's retaliation, which disrupted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
Projected impact on poor, middle class and SMEs
May 15, 2026
The CM said the price rise would affect the income of the poor and middle class using two-wheelers and small vehicles, and could raise prices of daily commodities, reduce purchasing power, and slow market activity and exports.
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay condemns price hike as 'unacceptable' and calls for rollback
May 15, 2026
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay called the price hike 'unacceptable' and urged the Union government to roll back the increase immediately, alleging that oil marketing companies do not reduce prices in line with global crude trends and 'take the profits'.
Petrol and diesel prices rise by ₹3 per litre after five-state polls
May 15, 2026
Petrol and diesel prices were increased by ₹3 per litre, with the hike described as having been effected after the five-state polls (four states and one union territory).