Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi strongly criticised the Karnataka government over its recent electric vehicle (EV) policy decisions, alleging that the state is moving backwards on clean energy initiatives.
In a recorded video statement, released on Friday by Joshi's office, reacting to the withdrawal of tax exemptions on EVs and the imposition of lifetime road tax, Joshi termed the move a “step backwards from reforms” and said it would place an additional financial burden on the middle class.
He questioned why Karnataka was “shifting into reverse gear” at a time when the rest of the country and the world are advancing towards clean energy solutions. The minister said the decision reflects a significant U-turn in the state’s EV policy. He expressed concern that while other states are actively promoting EV adoption through tax benefits and supportive policies, Karnataka appears to be discouraging the use of green energy alternatives.
Minister Joshi alleged that the move would make electric vehicles more expensive and less accessible to common people, particularly the middle class. He warned that such measures could slow down EV adoption in the state instead of encouraging it.
Criticising the Congress-led government, Joshi claimed that Karnataka, once seen as a model for clean transportation, is now regressing due to what he described as “anti-people, anti-innovation, and anti-technology policies”. He further alleged that the state government is prioritising revenue generation over sustainable development.
The Union Minister also linked the decision to the state’s financial condition, claiming that the imposition of a lifetime tax is aimed at increasing revenue. He accused the state government of indirectly encouraging the use of diesel and petrol by making EVs less affordable, adding that reliance on fuel-based tax revenue is being used to address financial challenges.
Joshi said the entire country is moving towards sustainable and clean energy solutions, and expressed concern that Karnataka’s actions could undermine long-term environmental goals. He urged the state's Congress government to reconsider its approach, warning that such policies could hinder the vision of a sustainable future.