Pawar Seeks All-Party Meet Over PM’s Fuel Appeal
Involving leaders from all parties in the decision-making process on matters of national interest is extremely essential for the welfare of the country: NCP founder Sharad Pawar
MUMBAI: A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens to use fuel cautiously, NCP founder Sharad Pawar on Tuesday called for an all-party meeting to discuss the situation. Mr. Pawar said the Prime Minister’s announcements were likely to have far-reaching implications for the country’s economy.
He said the sudden nature of the decisions had created anxiety among ordinary citizens, as well as in the business, industrial and investment sectors.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said ministers would require permission from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis before using state aircraft, in accordance with existing norms. He added that the government would also explore reducing the use of official vehicles by conducting more virtual meetings.
In a post on X, Mr. Pawar, a former Union Defence Minister, said: “Against the backdrop of the unstable and warlike situation in the Middle East, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made certain announcements two days ago. These are likely to have far-reaching impacts on the country’s economy. The sudden nature of these announcements has created an atmosphere of unease among ordinary citizens, the industry-business sector, as well as investors. This situation is certainly a cause for concern.”
The veteran Maratha leader said that, given the seriousness of the matter, the Prime Minister should personally chair an all-party meeting. “Involving leaders from all parties in the decision-making process on matters of national interest is extremely essential for the welfare of the country,” he said.
Mr. Pawar also urged the Centre to adopt a more consultative approach in light of the prevailing international situation. He said the Prime Minister should immediately convene a meeting with leading economists, industry representatives and other experts to conduct a comprehensive review and discuss future policy measures.
The NCP (SP) chief further stressed that restoring public confidence and stability should be the government’s top priority under the current circumstances.
A senior official said the rules governing the use of state aircraft were not new. Initially, the aircraft could be used only by the Chief Minister and the Governor of Maharashtra. Former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray later amended the rules to expand access. During the government led by Eknath Shinde, the norms were revised again to allow Deputy Chief Ministers and the Governor to use the aircraft.