Islamabad, June 13,2026: Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Punjab, Dr. Tariq Saleem, has said that the federal budget has failed to provide meaningful relief to the public amid rising inflation, unemployment, and poverty.
Speaking at a gathering at the Central Training Center in Mansoora, he stated that despite worsening economic conditions, the government has not introduced effective measures to ease the burden on citizens. He said that the announced increase in salaries and pensions is negligible compared to the prevailing rate of inflation.
He further remarked that while the government continues to collect substantial tax revenues from the public, a significant portion is being spent on debt servicing and administrative expenses instead of being invested in key sectors such as education and healthcare.
Dr. Saleem questioned public confidence in government policies, saying that basic needs of citizens are being overlooked despite heavy taxation.
Criticizing the increase in the petroleum levy, he warned that it would lead to higher fuel prices, trigger a fresh wave of inflation, and further burden low-income households. He added that rising fuel costs would also increase industrial production expenses, negatively affecting economic activity and employment opportunities.
He also pointed out that despite ongoing discussions regarding Independent Power Producers (IPPs), the budget does not include any practical measures to reduce electricity and fuel costs for consumers.
Dr. Saleem said inflation, unemployment, and excessive taxation have made life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens, while government claims of economic stability do not reflect ground realities.
He further stated that Jamaat-e-Islami is intensifying its public outreach across Punjab to raise awareness and organize citizens around issues of economic hardship and governance.
Calling on party workers, he urged them to engage with the public more actively and take the message of Jamaat-e-Islami to every household, aiming to build a stronger and more organized public movement for addressing Pakistan’s economic and social challenges.
