Eknath Shinde Meets PM Narendra Modi; Slams Opposition Over Fuel Shortage Rumours

On Tuesday, Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. He criticised Opposition parties for spreading rumours about fuel and gas shortages during a sensitive geopolitical phase.

Shinde accused the Indian National Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) of fuelling panic through misinformation. He warned that such narratives aid hoarders and black marketers. He also alleged that similar tactics during Operation Sindoor had allowed foreign media, particularly in Pakistan, to target India.

Addressing reporters, Shinde sharply criticised Rahul Gandhi and other Opposition leaders. He termed the politicisation of a war-like situation as irresponsible and detrimental to national interest.

He reiterated the principle of ‘nation first’, echoing the ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray.

Shinde stated that discussions with the Prime Minister centred on the Iran–Israel conflict, internal security, and development priorities in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Deputy CM reaffirmed the Shiv Sena’s commitment as a key NDA ally and assured full support to the Centre during the crisis. He informed the Prime Minister about the safe return of Maharashtra residents stranded in Kuwait City, Dubai, and Muscat.

Shinde credited India’s diplomatic outreach for enabling the secure passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. He also praised the unopposed election of Jyoti Waghmare to the Rajya Sabha, expressing confidence in her representation of public concerns.

During his visit, Shinde met Om Birla at Parliament. Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Piyush Goyal also attended the meeting.

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