Pawar said the sudden appeal had created unease among ordinary citizens, businesses, industrial sectors and investors.
At this junction, the government’s foremost priority should be to restore public confidence and safeguard stability in the country, the former Union minister said in a statement.
Also Read: Fadnavis, Shivraj Singh Chouhan back PM Modi’s austerity appeal, criticise Rahul Gandhi
Emphasising that the Centre is trying to shield people from the adverse impact of the West Asia conflict, PM Modi has called for judicious use of fuel, postponement of gold purchases and foreign travel, among other measures to strengthen the economy.
Modi suggested reducing petrol and diesel consumption, using Metro rail services in cities, carpooling, increased use of electric vehicles, utilising railway services for parcel movement, and working from home to conserve foreign exchange amid the crisis in West Asia.
Pawar said that against the backdrop of the “unstable and warlike situation in the Middle East,” the PM made some announcements two days ago that are likely to have far-reaching impacts on the country’s economy.Describing the issue as a matter of serious concern, he said decisions on matters of national importance should be taken after consulting leaders of all political parties.
“The prime minister should convene an all-party meeting under his chairmanship and take all political parties into confidence while formulating decisions in the national interest,” the Rajya Sabha member said.
Also Read:PM austerity appeal row: BJP’s counterattack on Rahul Gandhi invokes Nehru’s speech
He also called on the Centre to act with greater sensitivity and undertake wider consultations in view of the current international situation on future policy measures.
“At this juncture, the government’s highest priority should be to instil confidence among the people and ensure stability in the country,” he added.
