The Shiv Sena (UBT) on Friday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Central government over the ongoing fuel and economic crisis, accusing it of promoting symbolic austerity measures while failing to address deeper financial and energy-related concerns.
In a strongly worded editorial published in the party mouthpiece Saamana, the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction described the administration as a “stay-at-home government” and criticised recent appeals urging citizens to reduce fuel consumption, limit travel and work from home.
The editorial alleged that self-serving policies pursued by the government had weakened major public sector oil and gas companies, including Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), while questioning the government’s economic management during a period of rising fuel prices and energy uncertainty.
It also claimed that while state-run energy firms were under financial pressure, the BJP and PM CARES Fund together held massive financial reserves, suggesting those funds should be contributed to the national treasury as a demonstration of sacrifice and public service.
Editorial questions PM Modi’s reduced security convoy
The editorial also took aim at what it described as “sudden austerity optics” surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent public appearances.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s appeal asking citizens to conserve fuel and avoid unnecessary travel, the article highlighted the contrast between those appeals and PM Modi’s ongoing foreign visits, including his scheduled multi-nation tour.
The editorial specifically questioned the recent publicised visuals showing the Prime Minister travelling in Delhi with a significantly smaller security convoy consisting of only two escort vehicles.
It asked why large convoys involving dozens of vehicles had been considered necessary for years if a minimal security arrangement was now deemed sufficient.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed the move appeared aimed at creating a public image of austerity amid growing public concern over rising fuel prices and inflation.
Devendra Fadnavis’ motorcycle ride termed ‘theatrical’
The editorial also criticised Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over his recent decision to travel to the Vidhan Bhavan on a Bullet motorcycle as part of a fuel-saving initiative.
According to the party, the motorcycle ride was largely symbolic and “theatrical” in nature.
The editorial noted that Fadnavis had urged people not to mock the Prime Minister’s fuel conservation appeal and had attempted to demonstrate solidarity by replacing his regular motorcade with a two-wheeler convoy accompanied by security personnel on motorcycles.
However, the article contrasted those gestures with what it described as recent examples of extravagance involving top state leaders.
It pointed out that the Chief Minister and both Deputy Chief Ministers had reportedly used separate chartered flights to attend swearing-in ceremonies in other states.
Shiv Sena (UBT) raises concerns over ONGC’s financial position
The Thackeray faction further alleged that ONGC’s financial position had weakened significantly under the current administration.
According to the editorial, the company had cash reserves of nearly Rs 13,000 crore in 2014 but was now reportedly burdened with debt of around Rs 80,000 crore.
The article also claimed that domestic oil production levels had declined substantially over the years, though it did not provide independent data to support the figures mentioned.
The editorial argued that the weakening financial condition of state-run energy companies reflected broader policy failures in the energy sector.
Foreign policy criticism linked to fuel crisis
The editorial additionally criticised the Centre’s foreign policy approach, alleging that India had avoided purchasing cheaper Russian gas due to pressure from the United States.
According to the Shiv Sena (UBT), this had worsened the fuel crisis and contributed to higher energy costs for Indian consumers.
The comments come at a time when fuel prices across the country have risen sharply following increases in global crude oil prices linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Political tensions between the ruling BJP and opposition parties in Maharashtra have also intensified in recent weeks over inflation, fuel prices and the broader economic situation.
(With inputs from IANS)
