Modi Calls for Unity and Resilience Amid West Asia Crisis, Warns Against Rumours
PM assures citizens on fuel supply and expatriate safety, criticises opposition over “dangerous” remarks
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday described the ongoing crisis in West Asia as a “challenging time” for India and urged citizens to respond with unity and resilience.
Speaking during his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister called on people across the country to stay united and collectively face the situation. He emphasised the importance of national solidarity during uncertain global developments.
Later, while campaigning in poll-bound Kerala, Modi reassured citizens that the safety of Indians living in conflict-affected regions of West Asia remains the government’s top priority. He highlighted the large number of expatriates from Kerala working in Gulf countries and said the Centre is closely monitoring their well-being.
The Prime Minister also criticised the Congress party, accusing it of politicising a sensitive international issue. He described some of its statements on the West Asia conflict as “dangerous” and alleged that such remarks could put Indian lives at risk.
Modi said the government is actively working to minimise the impact of the crisis on India, particularly in terms of energy security. He noted that the conflict zone is a key source of global energy supplies, raising concerns about potential disruptions in petrol and diesel availability worldwide.
He also cautioned citizens against misinformation, warning that rumours could create unnecessary panic and harm national interests.
Meanwhile, the government sought to reassure the public that there is no immediate cause for concern. A statement from the Press Information Bureau said that oil refineries across the country are operating at high capacity and that adequate stocks of crude oil, petrol, and diesel are available.
While acknowledging some disruption in LPG supply due to the geopolitical situation, the government clarified that there has been no shortage at the distributor level and that deliveries continue as usual.
The statement also attributed reports of long queues at petrol pumps in some areas to panic buying triggered by rumours, urging citizens not to believe unverified information.
Overall, the government maintained that the situation remains under control, even as it continues to closely monitor developments in West Asia.
