KARACHI: Dr. Farooq Sattar, a senior leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), expressed strong opposition to the recent surge in petrol prices, cautioning that it could have serious repercussions for the country’s stability and societal well-being.
The federal government announced a hike of Rs138 per liter in petrol prices, setting the new rate at Rs458.40. Additionally, diesel prices have been increased by Rs184 per liter, reaching Rs520.35.
In a statement, Dr. Sattar described the price increase as “reckless and ill-advised,” emphasizing that such a move could destabilize the economy and worsen social issues. He warned that the financial strain might push individuals toward desperate acts, including suicide, and could lead to a rise in criminal activity.
He called on the government to reverse the decision immediately, urging policymakers to reconsider their approach for the sake of the nation’s citizens.
Meanwhile, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, the head of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, also condemned the sharp rise in fuel prices, likening it to a “petrol bomb” dropped on the public. He announced plans to organize nationwide protests against the government’s decision.
In a video message, Hafiz Naeem urged authorities to suspend payments to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and regasification facilities, arguing that reducing government expenditures would be more effective than burdening the public further.
He criticized government spending priorities, pointing out that billions are still being paid to IPPs under capacity charges despite no gas being supplied, and questioned why payments to regasification plants, which are currently inactive, are continuing without interruption.
