ISLAMABAD
A prominent human rights organization in Pakistan has issued a sharp warning to the government following a massive jump in fuel prices. The Human Rights Council of Pakistan stated that the decision to push petrol and diesel rates to record highs will put an unbearable burden on citizens who are already struggling with historic inflation and shrinking paychecks.
The numbers are staggering. Reports show that petrol prices have surged by 43 percent, while high-speed diesel has skyrocketed by 55 percent. These new rates represent the highest prices the country has ever seen, instantly making daily life more expensive for everyone. The rights group argued that such a drastic increase is not justified, even with current global tensions. They pointed out that international oil supplies haven’t been fully cut off and that other energy options exist that the government could explore instead.
Beyond the cost, the council raised concerns about a lack of transparency, suggesting the decision-making process was hidden from the public. They fear this move will harm the economy further by driving up the cost of transport, food, and basic services. This, they warned, could eventually violate the fundamental right to a decent standard of living.
Urging the government to act fast, the council called for an immediate review of the price hike and the introduction of relief measures for the poor. They cautioned that if the government doesn’t address the growing public frustration over these rising costs, the country could face widespread social and economic instability very soon.
