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Fact-check: Kerala Congress' ₹146 UPI diesel charge actually ₹5, says PCI
✍️ Livemint
🗓 17 Sep 2026, 10:01 PM
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The Press Council of India examined Kerala Congress's claim that a ₹30,924 diesel payment incurred a ₹146 UPI merchant discount rate, finding the actual charge was ₹5.
The Press Council of India (PCI) has refuted a statement made by the Kerala Congress alleging that a diesel purchase of ₹30,924 attracted a UPI merchant discount rate (MDR) of ₹146. In its fact‑check, PCI clarified that the standard UPI MDR for such a transaction is only ₹5, far lower than the figure quoted by the party.
Kerala Congress had highlighted the higher charge to question the cost of digital payments and to suggest possible irregularities in the payment system. PCI’s investigation involved reviewing the transaction details and the prevailing UPI fee structure, which confirmed the minimal charge.
The clarification comes amid growing scrutiny of digital payment fees across India, as consumers and political groups seek transparency in the cost of using platforms like UPI for high‑value transactions.
PCI’s findings underscore that the UPI network continues to operate with a low MDR, aligning with the government’s policy to keep digital transaction costs minimal for end users.
The fact‑check aims to curb misinformation and ensure that public debate on payment policies is based on accurate data.
Kerala Congress had highlighted the higher charge to question the cost of digital payments and to suggest possible irregularities in the payment system. PCI’s investigation involved reviewing the transaction details and the prevailing UPI fee structure, which confirmed the minimal charge.
The clarification comes amid growing scrutiny of digital payment fees across India, as consumers and political groups seek transparency in the cost of using platforms like UPI for high‑value transactions.
PCI’s findings underscore that the UPI network continues to operate with a low MDR, aligning with the government’s policy to keep digital transaction costs minimal for end users.
The fact‑check aims to curb misinformation and ensure that public debate on payment policies is based on accurate data.