Karnataka Truckers’ Body Announces Indefinite Strike Over Diesel Prices Despite Government Appeal

 Bengaluru, April 17, 2025 — The Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners’ and Agents’ Association has announced an indefinite statewide strike beginning Monday night, in protest against the recent rise in diesel prices and toll charges. The decision, which could disrupt goods transport across Karnataka, comes despite an appeal for reconsideration from State Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy.

Addressing the media, Association President G.P. Shanmugappa confirmed that thousands of trucks—including those entering Karnataka from other states—will remain off the roads. Only vehicles transporting milk and other essential perishables will be exempt from the strike.

The Federation had initially announced the protest on April 4, citing key demands such as a rollback of the diesel price hike, which was attributed to an increase in the state’s sales tax, and the scrapping of toll collection on state highways.

Minister Ramalinga Reddy expressed disappointment over the decision, stating that he had personally appealed to association leaders to reconsider. “They did not raise their voices when the Central Government hiked diesel prices over the last decade. Yet, they have now opted for a strike following a marginal increase by the state,” he said.

Citing fuel price trends, the minister highlighted that in 2015, diesel cost ₹49.54 per litre, compared to ₹91.05 today. “Under the previous UPA government, when crude oil was $140 per barrel, diesel was ₹41.29 per litre. Under the current regime, even as crude prices have halved to $60, retail diesel prices have nearly doubled,” he pointed out. “Despite this, there were no strikes then.”

He also emphasized that diesel prices in Karnataka remain among the lowest in southern India—second only to Puducherry. “In public interest, I urge the truckers’ federation to call off the strike,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Federation of Karnataka Lorry Owners' Association, a separate body, has distanced itself from the protest. Its honorary president, Channa Reddy, stated that his group had not been consulted prior to the announcement. “We are not part of this strike,” he said.

The strike threatens to disrupt logistics and supply chains statewide, particularly for non-perishable goods, amid ongoing concerns about inflation and fuel costs. The state government is expected to continue dialogue with stakeholders in an effort to avert a prolonged standoff.