Srinagar, May 12: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday warned that India could face a serious energy crisis if the ongoing West Asia conflict is not resolved soon.
Addressing reporters in Srinagar, Abdullah said the country is already facing growing concerns over fuel and gas supply.
“A crisis is coming upon us — fuel crisis, gas crisis. We are heading towards destruction,” he said.
The former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister also said the government’s push for online education to save fuel was not a viable solution for all students, as many lack access to digital facilities.
“Everyone does not have online facilities. We will have to think and do something because education is very important,” he said.
Commenting on the broader economic situation, Abdullah said the country’s economy was in a “bad shape” and warned of further deterioration if tensions between Iran and the United States continue.
“If this Iran-US conflict does not end soon, God knows what is in store for us,” he said.
Referring to the recent call for fuel conservation and reduced imports by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Abdullah said rising global energy prices were putting pressure on India’s foreign exchange reserves.
On the issue of alcohol regulation in Jammu and Kashmir, he accused the opposition of selective criticism and questioned their silence when liquor outlets were earlier opened.
“The government will not waste time in banning alcohol if the Centre compensates for the revenue loss,” he added.
