Pakistan’s inflation crisis deepens as petrol hikes trigger protests, highway blockades

Rawalpindi [Pakistan], August 8 (ANI): Public anger over rising petrol prices, inflation and heavy taxation spilt onto the streets of Rawalpindi and several neighbouring districts, with political activists and citizens demanding immediate relief from the government. The protests were organised following a call by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, as reported by The Express Tribune.
According to The Express Tribune, JI Punjab chief Tariq Saleem led a demonstration at Liaquat Bagh on Murree Road in Rawalpindi, where protesters criticised the government's economic policies and rising fuel costs.
Saleem said people across 475 villages and urban settlements were protesting against inflation and what he described as excessive taxation. He argued that higher petrol prices were placing a disproportionate burden on workers, students and motorcycle users, who rely heavily on affordable fuel for their daily travel.
Addressing the gathering, the JI leader stated that growing public frustration could lead to larger protests if authorities failed to address inflation and taxation.
He said Pakistan's resources should serve ordinary citizens rather than a small group of political and economic elites. Protesters also raised concerns over unemployment and the rising cost of necessities.
Demonstrators said many families were struggling to afford food and other essentials while government leaders continued to spend heavily.
The protesters demanded the withdrawal of what they termed unjust petroleum levies and taxes. Saleem questioned the continued increase in domestic petrol and diesel prices, arguing that international crude oil prices had not risen proportionately.
The demonstrations also highlighted concerns over the detention of students and JI workers who participated in protests, with party leaders demanding their release, as cited by The Express Tribune.
The unrest was not limited to Rawalpindi. Large demonstrations were also reported in the Hazara division, where protesters staged sit-ins at several locations.
The Karakoram Highway was blocked at five separate points, disrupting traffic along the important route, as reported by The Express Tribune. (ANI)