The opposition alliance in Maharashtra has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his appeal to citizens to reduce fuel consumption and limit foreign travel, calling it an attempt to shift the burden of rising prices and economic strain onto the public. Leaders from the Congress, Shiv Sena faction led by Uddhav Thackeray, and the Nationalist Congress Party faction led by Sharad Pawar accused the central government of policy failures and prioritising elections over governance. They questioned whether the appeal signalled a possible increase in fuel prices and argued that the government should take responsibility for inflation and foreign policy challenges.

State Congress and other opposition leaders also targeted the Prime Minister for continuing large public events while urging citizens to practise restraint. They said sacrifices should begin with those in power rather than ordinary people already dealing with high living costs.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the Prime Minister’s remarks, citing global instability and pressure on supply chains. He said the government has ensured fuel availability but stressed the need for rational consumption to conserve foreign exchange. He urged citizens to support the appeal in light of international economic pressures. A state minister also announced he would skip attending the Cannes Film Festival in France in response to the call, though he said official support for regional films would continue virtually.