Srinagar, May 12, 2026 : Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the country’s economic condition and warned that India could face a major fuel and energy crisis if tensions in West Asia are not resolved soon.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, the former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister said the ongoing Iran-US tensions could severely impact fuel availability, gas supplies and the overall economy.
“A crisis is coming upon us — fuel crisis, gas crisis. We are heading towards destruction if the conflict does not end soon,” Abdullah said.
He further claimed that the government is considering increasing online classes in schools as part of fuel-saving measures, but cautioned that many students still lack access to proper online facilities.
“Education is extremely important. Not every child has access to online education, so we will have to think seriously and find solutions,” he added.
Commenting on the country’s economic condition, the National Conference president said the economy was already under severe pressure and warned that continued instability in West Asia could worsen the situation further.
“Yes, the economy is definitely in bad shape. If the Iran-US conflict continues, God knows what lies ahead for us,” he remarked.
His statement comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to conserve fuel, reduce unnecessary imports and exercise restraint in gold purchases amid rising global energy prices and pressure on India’s foreign exchange reserves.
Responding to the demand raised by the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party for a ban on alcohol, Abdullah accused opposition parties of criticising the government without raising substantial public issues.
“I want to ask them why they remained silent when liquor shops were being opened. We know who is pulling their strings,” he said without naming any specific party leader.
Farooq Abdullah also stated that the government would not delay imposing a liquor ban if the Centre compensates Jammu and Kashmir for the revenue losses likely to result from such a move.
