Senior BJP leader Avinash Rai Khanna has criticised the Himachal Pradesh government over its decision to increase the fee for vehicles entering the state from April 1, terming the move as “a direct betrayal of the people”.Addressing the media, Khanna said the Congress-led government has decided to raise the entry fee for private cars, jeeps and vans from outside the state from Rs 70 to Rs 170.He described the hike as “unjustified financial burden” on the common man as well as on those whose livelihood depends on transportation.Khanna alleged that the decision reflects “public exploitation” by the government and that the increased levy would adversely affect not only tourists but also transporters, small traders, and service providers who frequently travel to Himachal for business purposes.According to him, such measures would ultimately impact tourism and inter-state movement, placing additional strain on families already grappling with inflation.The former MP said Himachal is home to numerous revered pilgrimage destinations that attract devotees from across the country. Imposing a higher entry tax could discourage religious tourism.He urged the government to withdraw the order.