Deregulation of diesel prices not possible: Reddy

Oil Minister S Jaipal Reddy on Thursday ruled out deregulation of diesel prices, saying it is not politically and practically feasible.

Oil Minister S Jaipal Reddy on Thursday ruled out deregulation of diesel prices, saying it is not politically and practically feasible.

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"It is not possible, (right now)" Reddy said.

"Let me make it clear, I agree in theory that diesel prices should be deregulated, but whether it is practically and politically feasible is totally different," he added.

Reddy, who replaced Murli Deora as the new Oil Minister last week, had said that one of the major task at the nation's highest economic turnover ministry is clearly cut out --avoiding fuel price hikes.

While oil companies have been pressing for a hike in diesel and domestic LPG prices after global oil prices rose to $ 92 per barrel, he had said a balance would have to be stuck.