Bhopal: Soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens to reduce petrol and diesel consumption in the interest of the country's economy amid the Iran-US conflict, a leader from his own party has landed in controversy in Madhya Pradesh for allegedly ignoring that message.

Grand procession sparks controversy
BJP leader Saubhagya Singh Thakur, who was recently appointed as the Chairman of the Madhya Pradesh Textbook Corporation, travelled from Ujjain to Bhopal in a massive convoy of more than 50 luxury cars, triggering criticism.

The long line of vehicles reportedly stretched for kilometres on the highway as he travelled to assume charge in his new role. Supporters also organised a grand welcome along the route, leading to traffic congestion and causing inconvenience to the public.

What did Modi appeal for?
Speaking at a BJP rally in Telangana last Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had warned that fuel prices could rise due to the war-like situation in West Asia. He urged people to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption, use metro and public transport facilities, and opt for carpooling wherever possible.

He had also appealed to citizens to postpone gold purchases and avoid unnecessary foreign travel.

Political war of words
After videos of the BJP leader's lavish convoy went viral on social media, the Congress launched a sharp attack on the ruling party.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the incident, saying, "On one hand, the Prime Minister is asking ordinary citizens to make sacrifices, while leaders from his own party are displaying such extravagance. This reflects the administrative failure of the government."

Responding to the criticism, BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi defended the Prime Minister's remarks, stating, "India imports nearly 85 per cent of its fuel requirements. The Prime Minister has raised awareness to protect the country from a global economic crisis. It is condemnable that the Congress is trying to politicise the issue."