JUI Holds Sit-in in Lahore Against Sharp Rise in Petroleum Prices

Lahore— Jamaat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) staged a strong protest in Lahore against the federal government’s massive hike in petrol and diesel prices.
A large number of demonstrators gathered at Dubai Chowk, Iqbal Town, blocked the road by sitting on it, and chanted slogans against the government. They demanded an immediate reduction in fuel prices.
Protesters warned that if the government does not announce a rollback in prices soon, the scope of the agitation will be expanded across the city and province. “This sit-in is just the beginning,” they said.
Participants expressed anger over the new prices — petrol at Rs458.41 per litre and high-speed diesel at Rs520.35 per litre — saying the sharp increase (Rs137+ in petrol and Rs184+ in diesel) has badly affected common citizens, motorbike riders, public transport, and farmers.
JUI leaders accused the government of burdening the poor under the pretext of international oil prices while failing to provide any relief. They called upon the authorities to reduce prices immediately and give respite to the masses.
Heavy police deployment was seen at the protest site, though no arrests have been reported so far.
This protest is part of growing nationwide resentment following the government’s decision to pass on the impact of rising global oil prices — triggered by tensions in the Middle East — to Pakistani consumers.