India, May 13 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to reduce fuel consumption due to the ongoing West Asia conflict has seen contradictory responses. While some leaders heeded to Modi's exhortation, some others chose to ignore, inviting intense scrutiny.

Addressing a public event in Hyderabad on Sunday, Modi said petroleum products should be used only as needed.

"Today, the need of the hour is to use petrol, gas, diesel and similar resources with restraint. We must use imported petroleum products only as needed. This will not only save foreign exchange but also reduce the adverse impact of war," the Prime Minister said.

He also suggested using Metro rail services in cities, carpooling, increased use of electric vehicles, utilising ...