Modi’s call to reduce fuel usage unrealistic: MLC Ivan

Mangaluru: MLC Ivan D'Souza strongly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his reported appeal to reduce the use of petrol and diesel, calling it impractical in a country where transportation and livelihoods largely depend on fuel-powered vehicles.D'Souza said it was unrealistic to expect people to immediately stop using petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles. He questioned the intention behind the Prime Minister's remarks, arguing that such appeals do not reflect ground realities.He alleged that citing fuel shortages could be a strategy to justify increasing petrol and diesel prices, and said continuous price hikes were making life increasingly difficult for ordinary people.Pointing out that the country's working population continues to grow, D'Souza said dependence on petrol and diesel is also increasing day by day. He claimed that if fuel prices rise after the elections in the five states are completed, it would severely affect the working class and push many people into hardship.Condemning the rise in fuel and gas prices by citing war-related reasons, D'Souza said the public cannot reduce transportation usage under the present circumstances. He warned that if the trend of price hikes continues, strong protests will be launched.In his statement, D'Souza further alleged that the Prime Minister appears to be more focused on elections and the development of his political party than on the welfare and development of common people.