A formal petition has been submitted to the Lahore High Court challenging the recent rise in petroleum prices. The petition describes the government’s move as “illegal and against public interest” and warns that the increase could lead to another surge in inflation across the country.
The case names the federal government along with the Ministry of Energy, Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), and several other agencies as respondents. According to Siddiq, the higher fuel prices will affect multiple sectors, including transport, agriculture, industry, electricity production and daily consumer goods.
He argued that the rise in petrol prices will immediately increase transport fares, which will then raise the cost of food items, vegetables, fruits, and other necessities. He also pointed out that in a developing country like Pakistan, such increases put heavy financial strain on people who are already dealing with inflation and unemployment.
The petitioner further claimed that oil companies reportedly had petrol reserves for around 15 days before the price hike. He questioned why such a sudden increase was necessary despite the available stock. He asked the court to order OGRA and the Ministry of Energy to provide a detailed report explaining the fuel reserves, the pricing mechanism and the reasons behind the increase so that the matter becomes transparent.
Siddiq also requested the court to cancel the official notification and direct the government to reconsider petrol prices while keeping public interest and the overall economic situation in mind.
Legal experts believe the case may prompt the court to review Pakistan’s fuel pricing structure. The High Court could call the government and the concerned departments to explain the reasons behind the increase during the upcoming hearings.