The manner in which the ruling class is altering taxes and prices overnight is either a testament to their panic or a clear manifestation of a severe lack of coordination. Increasing the price of petrol by a staggering Rs137 per litre in a single night, only to offer a so-called ‘relief’ of Rs80 per litre the following night, highlights that our policymakers lack both a solid strategy and foresight. As a result of these erratic decisions, oil companies and petrol pump owners were handed windfalls worth millions of rupees overnight, while the burden on the public’s pocket intensified. Now, the question arises: since the petrol price has been partially reduced, will there be a proportionate decrease in transport fares? Or will this injustice against the people continue unchecked?
Unfortunately, current policies seem more inclined toward snatching away from the people rather than providing genuine relief. Whether it is FBR taxes, provincial department charges, toll taxes or heavy fines, the element of emptying the public’s pockets is more prominent than any actual reform. The leadership must take concrete steps to ensure basic facilities and the means for a decent livelihood for ordinary people.
Zahid Rauf Kamboh
Toba Tek Singh
