Mayawati Highlights Economic Crisis Amid Prime Minister's Austerity Appeal

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati has raised alarms over a comprehensive economic crisis facing India, following an austerity appeal from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking on the matter Tuesday, Mayawati noted that the crisis extends beyond just petroleum products, touching on broader economic concerns.

In a statement made on social media platform X, Mayawati highlighted the Prime Minister's call for restraint as a response to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which is impacting energy supplies and foreign exchange reserves. She warned that millions of Indians, who have struggled since the COVID-19 pandemic, are at risk of further economic hardship.

In response, Mayawati called for urgent, proactive measures from the central and state governments to support affected families, stressing that these actions align with both public sentiment and national interest. Her comments resonate with Modi's suggestions during a BJP rally in Hyderabad to conserve resources by reducing fuel consumption, and deferring non-essential expenditures like gold purchases and foreign travel.

(With inputs from agencies.)