Jamaat-e-Islami chief Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman has strongly criticized the government over the latest increase in Petroleum Prices, saying the authorities are using fuel charges as a major source of income.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman reacted to the recent fuel price hike and accused the government of placing additional financial pressure on ordinary citizens. He said the public is being forced to pay heavy taxes and levies despite changes in the international oil market.
According to the JI chief, Petroleum Prices in the global market have dropped by around eight dollars. However, he claimed the government is still collecting large amounts from consumers through taxes and petroleum levies.
He stated that more than Rs150 per litre is being recovered from citizens in the form of taxes and levies. Hafiz Naeem argued that these charges are increasing the burden on lower and middle-income groups across the country.
The JI leader said students, labourers, and motorcycle riders are among the most affected segments of society. He added that rising Petroleum Prices are making transportation and daily living more difficult for people already struggling with inflation.
Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman also criticized what he described as unnecessary spending by the ruling class. He claimed that while ordinary people are paying heavy taxes, government officials continue to enjoy privileges and expensive state-funded facilities.
The Jamaat-e-Islami chief pointed to the use of official protocols, luxury spending, and government aircraft as examples of unequal treatment. He warned that such a system may not remain sustainable for a long time if economic pressure on citizens continues to increase.
Fuel prices have become a major public concern in Pakistan in recent months. Repeated increases in petrol and diesel rates have affected transportation costs, food prices, and other daily expenses. Many citizens and political parties have expressed concern over the impact of inflation on household budgets.
Economic experts believe fuel prices directly influence the cost of living because transportation expenses affect nearly every sector. Any increase in fuel rates can lead to higher prices for goods and services across the country.
In other news read more about: Petrol Price in Pakistan Crosses Rs414 After Fresh Increase
The latest criticism from Jamaat-e-Islami comes at a time when the government is facing growing public pressure over inflation and economic challenges. Officials, however, maintain that fuel price adjustments are linked to international market trends and fiscal requirements.
