Karti Chidambaram Questions PM Modi's Appeals for Self-Reliance

Congress MP Karti Chidambaram has raised questions about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent appeals aimed at boosting self-reliance in India. He described these calls as dramatic and suggested that they indicate deeper issues within the country. Chidambaram urged for a parliamentary session to discuss the implications of these appeals, which include working from home and reducing reliance on imports. His comments follow Modi's address highlighting the need for responsible consumption amid global supply chain disruptions. Additionally, Chidambaram provided insights into the Congress party's approach to forming a stable government in Kerala after their significant electoral victory.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 11, 2026, 16:16 IST

Concerns Raised Over PM's Calls for Self-Reliance

On Monday, Congress MP Karti Chidambaram expressed skepticism regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's seven appeals aimed at enhancing the country's self-reliance. He urged for a parliamentary session to discuss these comments, labeling them as dramatic and indicative of underlying issues. Chidambaram remarked to a news outlet that the Prime Minister's requests for citizens to work from home, refrain from purchasing gold, utilize public transport more, and avoid private vehicles are quite theatrical. He questioned the true state of the nation, suggesting that the government should be transparent with the public.

He further stated that a parliamentary session should be convened to clarify the situation, as it does not appear to be normal. Chidambaram's comments followed PM Modi's address in Secunderabad, where he urged a reduction in reliance on imports and the adoption of responsible consumption habits due to disruptions in the global supply chain and rising costs from international conflicts.

The Prime Minister called on citizens to decrease their consumption of cooking oil, use public transport, prioritize carpooling, embrace electric vehicles, and shift towards natural farming practices to alleviate the burden of imports and conserve foreign currency. Regarding the formation of the government in Kerala, Chidambaram stated that his party is aware of its responsibilities and is undergoing a comprehensive consultation process. He expressed confidence that they would reach a decision to provide a stable and effective government in Kerala.

Following the decisive victory of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in the Kerala assembly elections, Suni Joseph, the president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), confirmed on Saturday that the final decision regarding the next Chief Minister rests entirely with the party's high command in Delhi. The UDF secured a significant majority with 102 seats in the 140-member assembly, ousting the Left Democratic Front (LDF) led by Pinarayi Vijayan after a decade.