If Basil Rajapaksa was around, he would have not allow the government to increase fuel prices, State Minister Nimal Lanza said.

Speaking to the media, Lanza added that Basil Rajapaksa, who is currently overseas, would ensure the well-being of the public. He maintained that SLPP General Secretary Sagara Kariywasam's statement calling for Udaya Gammanpila's resignation was not done at the behest of Basil Rajapaksa.

"If Basl Rajapaksa wants something, he will communicate that directly. He will either speak to the President or the Prime Minister on such matters," the State Minister added.

"With the fuel price hike, the SLPP General Secretary came under severe pressure from the members of the party. It was this pressure that was reflected in the letter," he added.

The State Minister said the public was deeply dissatisfied with the fuel price hike and requested the Petroleum Minister to reconsider the decision on price increases.