Mumbai

The Indian National Congress in Maharashtra on Monday criticised the BJP-led central government over rising inflation and escalating fuel prices, urging it to move beyond symbolic gestures and issue a structured advisory on fuel conservation and economic management.

Addressing reporters in Mumbai, state Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe alleged that flawed economic and foreign policy decisions by the Centre had pushed farmers, the middle class, and ordinary citizens into financial distress amid rising prices.

Londhe said symbolic acts such as Devendra Fadnavis riding a motorcycle to promote fuel conservation do little to address the larger economic challenges. He argued that instead of “tokenism,” the government should issue a clear and comprehensive advisory outlining concrete steps for public representatives, bureaucrats, and citizens to reduce petrol and diesel consumption.

He also questioned the necessity of large official convoys, asking whether travel on a motorcycle compromises the chief minister’s security if accompanied by dozens of vehicles.

Last week, following Narendra Modi’s appeal for austerity measures to conserve fuel and foreign exchange in view of the ongoing tensions in West Asia, Fadnavis travelled to the Vidhan Bhavan on a motorcycle as part of the messaging.

Londhe further claimed that farmers continue to suffer due to falling agricultural returns, alleging that soybean cultivators who were promised Rs 2,400 per quintal are currently receiving nearly half that amount.

He also criticised the Centre’s foreign policy, claiming that opportunities to secure cheaper crude oil imports from countries such as Russia and Iran had not been effectively utilised, adding that the consequences were now being borne by ordinary citizens through higher fuel costs.

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In addition, the Congress leader targeted the Centre over the alleged NEET UG 2026 paper leak case, demanding accountability and questioning why Dharmendra Pradhan had not stepped down over the issue. He alleged that only lower-level accused were being apprehended while the alleged masterminds remained unidentified.