Protests and rallies swept through various parts of Pakistan’s Sindh province, including Karachi, Jacobabad, Hyderabad, and Sukkur, denouncing the recent surge in petroleum prices and escalating inflation. The Sindh United Party (SUP) staged a protest in Sukkur, with party members donning shrouds and engaging in a hunger strike to protest against the unaffordability of essential food items due to inflation. SUP leader Eidan Jagirani criticized the government for the petrol price increase, highlighting the financial strain on the working class.
In a parallel demonstration, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activists gathered at the same location, with senior leader Gohar Khan Khoso condemning the petrol price surge to PKR 378 per litre. PTI warned of heightened protests unless the government intervened promptly to alleviate the burden on the public by reducing unnecessary taxes. Meanwhile, Awami Tehreek organized a rally in Sukkur, followed by a sit-in, accusing the government of exploiting the West Asia conflict to justify the petrol and diesel price hikes.
The National Trade Union Federation Pakistan (NTUF) and the Home-Based Women Workers Federation (HBWWF) jointly organized a protest in Karachi, attracting workers and representatives from various political and human rights groups. Participants demanded the removal of the petroleum levy and an increase in wages to match the rising cost of living. Labour leaders, including Nasir Mansoor and Zahra Khan, opposed the economic policies of the IMF and World Bank, urging the government to defer foreign debt payments and revoke free fuel perks for officials.
Aam Insan Tehreek conducted a bicycle rally in Jacobabad to highlight the challenges faced by people in accessing motorized transport. Movement leaders criticized the government for burdening the populace while maintaining lavish expenditures and official protocols. The Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan staged a protest at Karachi Press Club on April 3, condemning the unjustified fuel price hike and its adverse impact on public finances. The HRC emphasized the need for immediate government action to curb inflation and alleviate the financial strain on citizens.
