Actor Prakash Raj has triggered a massive political debate online after strongly criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal asking citizens to reduce fuel consumption, avoid unnecessary foreign travel and adopt work-from-home practices amid global economic uncertainty linked to the West Asia conflict.
The Prime Minister’s speech during a public rally in Hyderabad quickly went viral across social media platforms, sparking sharp reactions from political leaders, celebrities and internet users.
Prakash Raj Launches Sharp Attack on PM Modi
Reacting to the Prime Minister’s remarks, Prakash Raj posted a strongly worded message on social media accusing the government of economic mismanagement and making ordinary citizens bear the burden of policy failures.
In his post, the actor referred to several past government decisions and political promises, including demonetisation, Covid-era campaigns, employment commitments and economic policies.
Raj alleged that citizens were now being asked to make sacrifices because of what he described as the government’s inability to manage the economy effectively.
The actor concluded his remarks by questioning the government’s performance and urging people to reflect on the situation critically.
PM Modi’s Speech Sparks Nationwide Debate
During his Hyderabad address, Prime Minister Modi had appealed to people to conserve petrol and diesel, use Metro services and public transport, reduce unnecessary spending and support locally manufactured products.
He also encouraged citizens to avoid expensive overseas vacations and destination weddings abroad in order to help preserve foreign exchange reserves during the ongoing global crisis.
Additionally, the Prime Minister suggested reviving work-from-home practices and virtual meetings to reduce fuel consumption and economic pressure caused by international instability and rising oil prices.
Social Media Divided Over Actor’s Remarks
Prakash Raj’s comments quickly drew intense reactions online, with supporters and critics engaging in heated exchanges across social media platforms.
Several users backed the actor’s criticism and praised him for speaking openly against the government, while many others accused him of targeting Prime Minister Modi unfairly.
Some users defended the government’s handling of Covid-19 and economic challenges, arguing that precautionary measures during the pandemic were necessary under extraordinary circumstances.
Others criticised Raj personally and dismissed his political opinions, leading to a flood of argumentative posts and counter-posts online.
Political Reactions Continue Over PM’s Appeal
The controversy comes amid growing opposition criticism over the Prime Minister’s call for austerity and fuel conservation.
Opposition parties including Congress, DMK and AAP have accused the government of shifting economic responsibility onto citizens instead of addressing inflation and rising living costs through policy measures.
The BJP and its allies, however, have defended the Prime Minister’s appeal as a responsible national response to global uncertainty and geopolitical instability.
