Karachi, September 15, 2026 – Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has termed the federal government’s collection of over Rs 100 levy on petrol a “major tragedy” and “grave injustice” to the public, stating that the high cost of petroleum products is impacting every Pakistani.
Addressing the Sindh Assembly, he said it would be a grave injustice for the government to oppose addressing this public issue, as the consequences of the price hikes are extremely severe.
Sharjeel Memon said global and Gulf conditions have pushed prices up, but the heavy levy has made the situation unbearable. He urged the federal government not to burden the public with further inflation, noting that the cost of everything is rising and the impact is being felt across every sector.
He warned that expensive diesel will raise farmers’ production costs and inevitably drive up vegetable prices and transport costs, while ordinary citizens who use motorcycles are also directly affected.
Acknowledging the Prime Minister’s relief announcement for motorcyclists, he insisted that the petroleum levy should be abolished for the time being to provide immediate relief, as people are already distressed by inflation and rising electricity and gas costs.
Launching a scathing attack on MQM, Sharjeel Memon said opposition members have been “struck dumb” by the massive hike. “MQM sits with the federal government yet remains silent. They are supporting the federal government merely for the sake of power. They refuse to relinquish federal ministries, choosing instead to remain silent while the burden is placed on the public,” he said.
He questioned, “MQM had once quit the government over a mere one-rupee increase in petrol prices, whereas today, the price has surged by up to Rs 150 and they are silent. Since MQM is part of the federal government, it must clarify its stance.”
He called on the federal government to immediately eliminate the additional financial burden and said all political parties, including MQM, should raise their voices against it.
“We fully support the resolution against the petroleum levy,” he concluded.
