ISLAMABAD (Digital Posts) Economic Hardship and Public Problems: The Gap Between Rulers’ Claims and Reality Rana Imran Latif

ISLAMABAD (Digital Posts) Senior Journalist, Analyst, Columnist and Editor-in-Chief, Islamabad

Looking at the country’s current economic situation is heartbreaking. Inflation is soaring, the common man’s purchasing power is declining day by day, and meeting the basic expenses of life is becoming increasingly difficult. Amid all this, the most prominent issue is the continuously rising prices of petrol, which are further aggravating the public’s problems.When the ruling parties took power, they made countless promises to the people. They pledged to reduce inflation, bring economic stability, create job opportunities, and make life easier for the common man. However, the reality is that there is no visible implementation of these claims. The costs of electricity, gas, food, and transportation continue to rise, while salaries and incomes remain almost stagnant. As a result, the middle and poor classes are facing severe hardships.The increase in petrol prices is not limited only to those who drive cars. It has a direct impact on fares, the prices of goods, agriculture, and industry. When fuel becomes expensive, everything becomes expensive.Shopkeepers, farmers, labourers, and small business owners all fall victim to it. These days, the price of petrol is around Rs 389 per litre, which is placing a heavy burden on the common man’s budget. Although occasional minor reductions are announced, the overall trend has remained upward, which is further distressing the public.Economic hardship is not confined to fuel alone. The depreciation of the currency, the burden of debt, a decline in industrial production, and unemployment have also intensified. Rulers should take practical steps instead of merely issuing statements. To fulfil the promises made to the people, they must formulate real policies, cut unnecessary expenditures, bring transparency, and give priority to economic reforms.

As a journalist and analyst, I have repeatedly said that the real purpose of democracy is to serve the people. If rulers fail to live up to their claims, public trust is shaken and the country’s stability is harmed. Immediate and effective measures are needed to reduce petrol prices, control inflation, and achieve economic recovery.Otherwise, these difficulties will only deepen further and the hardships of the common man will continue to increase.May Allah grant our country economic stability and enable the rulers to resolve the genuine problems of the people.