Islamabad, May 9: Pakistan is witnessing a dramatic surge in fuel prices, with petrol and diesel rates exceeding 410 Pakistani rupees per liter. The situation has sparked widespread unrest across the nation. The Human Rights Council of Pakistan condemned the increase, labeling it a “direct assault” on the common people.
This statement followed the government’s announcement on Friday, which raised petrol prices by 14.92 Pakistani rupees per liter and high-speed diesel (HSD) by 15 rupees per liter.
According to a press release from the Petroleum Division, the revised rates—414.78 Pakistani rupees per liter for petrol and 414.58 rupees per liter for HSD—took effect on Saturday.
The Human Rights Council stated, “This increase is not just a change in figures; it is a direct attack on the daily lives of millions of poor, laborers, and middle-class families. Those already burdened by inflation, unemployment, and low income find this decision unbearable. When fuel prices rise, it affects not only vehicles but also the costs of flour, lentils, vegetables, milk, medicines, and other essential goods.”
The council further noted, “This decision is particularly devastating for rickshaw drivers, daily wage laborers, transport workers, students, and the white-collar class. The poor are now not only under economic pressure but also grappling with severe mental stress, helplessness, and fear for the future.”
The organization urged the Pakistani government to immediately withdraw the increase in petroleum product prices and cut unnecessary privileges for the elite to provide immediate relief to the public. It also called for a halt to arbitrary increases in transport fares and the prices of essential goods, urging the government to prioritize “human sentiments and public distress” in economic decisions.
The council emphasized, “Human rights are not limited to speeches and resolutions. They are the fundamental right of every citizen to live a dignified and secure life.”
Last month, following another increase in petroleum product prices, the council sharply criticized the move, describing it as an “economic suicide attack” on the public.
Expressing serious concern, the council stated that the continuous rise in fuel prices is not merely a “numerical change” but an invitation to a storm of inflation that has already broken the backs of ordinary citizens.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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