PM misled public on economic situation: Rai

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee president Ajay Rai criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his appeal to citizens to avoid purchasing gold for a year and reduce petrol and diesel consumption, alleging that the Centre failed to disclose the true state of the economy before recent state elections.Rai questioned whether the country was facing an economic crisis or an emergency-like situation. He also questioned why the Prime Minister was conducting a roadshow in Gujarat shortly after making such an appeal.“The Prime Minister should first ask BJP leaders to contribute financially to the national interest and reduce the scale of official convoys and political roadshows, which consume large amounts of fuel,” he said.Referring to historical examples, Rai said during the 1962 India-China war, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi donated her jewellery, including 336 grams of gold, to the national defence fund when the country was facing challenges. He said leaders should set examples through their own actions.Rai accused PM Modi of misleading the public and claimed that govt was more focused on winning elections than addressing public concerns. He alleged that the Centre delayed disclosing the seriousness of the situation until elections in five states were over.Rai further claimed that inflation and rising prices over the past several years already put pressure on common citizens.“The PM’s appeal could also adversely affect jewellers, travel agencies and others dependent on sectors linked to fuel consumption and gold trade,” he said.