THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The opposition alleged in the assembly that ill-advised measures like diesel and petrol cess had caused a setback in the economy. In the adjournment motion presented in the assembly, the opposition accused that the crisis has reached a stage where people's daily lives are being affected. The government also admitted that the cess has backfired, but added that it cannot be withdrawn. Finance Minister KN Balagopal said that steps will be taken to stop diesel smuggling. Dissatisfied with the government's response to the issue that was debated after the assembly was adjourned, the opposition walked out.

Opposition leader VD Satheesan said that a tax burden which the people could not bear was imposed on the people because of the crisis. Diesel sales are less than last year by more than one crore litres. No dearness allowance for government employees. Medical aid to the people, mid-day meals for children, welfare pensions for the poor, food kits and social service assistance have been stopped. Satheesan demanded that the government correct the mistake. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that not criticism but collective action is needed to solve the financial crisis.