Tensions flared in the National Assembly on Monday as the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), a key ally in the ruling coalition, launched a scathing attack on the federal government over the recent Rs 55 per litre increase in petroleum prices. The session was abruptly adjourned by Deputy Speaker Ghulam Mustafa Shah as opposition members prepared to storm the speaker’s dais in protest.
Syed Naveed Qamar Questions ‘Beneficiaries’ of the Hike
Senior PPP leader Syed Naveed Qamar challenged the government to explain who truly benefited from the massive price revision. He argued that the government applied the new, higher prices to existing fuel stocks that had been procured at much lower international rates.
Mr. Qamar alleged that the Rs 55 increase far exceeded what the IMF had actually demanded, suggesting the move was designed to enrich oil marketing companies and petrol pump owners at the expense of the public. He warned that with global crude hitting $120 per barrel, the government might impose further “unjust” hikes in the coming weeks.
Overseas Welfare and Women’s Policing Initiatives
Before the fuel controversy halted proceedings, the House was briefed on several welfare and interior ministry updates:
Support for Overseas Pakistanis
Minister of State Awn Saqlain detailed expanded welfare programs for overseas Pakistanis, including:
- Financial Aid: Support for families in the event of death or disability of an overseas worker.
- Funeral Grants: A Rs 25,000 grant provided to destitute families.
- Ambulance Services: Free transportation of human remains from international airports to native towns.
- Complaint Redressal: Linking the OPF management system with the Pakistan Citizen’s Portal for faster resolution.
Digital Policing and Women’s Desks
Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry informed the House that Dedicated Women Facilitation Desks have been established in Islamabad police stations. These desks provide a safe, gender-sensitive environment with trained female staff and digital systems to ensure secure and confidential reporting for women.
Pakistan’s petrol is now Rs321/litre — within touching distance of all-time high — and the rupee hasn’t moved. This is entirely a crude oil story. Since December, oil has risen nearly 60% to $94. If conflict keeps driving crude toward $110-120, Pakistan is looking at…
— Omer Azhar (@OmerAzhar96) March 6, 2026
Copyright Amendment Bill Introduced
During the brief session, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry introduced the “Copyright (Amendment) Bill, 2026.” The chair has referred the bill to the relevant Standing Committee for further deliberation.
“The government has revised prices of the existing stock procured before the global spike. This is unjust and the IMF never demanded such a high increase.” — Syed Naveed Qamar, PPP Lawmaker.
What’s Next: Tuesday Session and Opposition Protest
Following the abrupt adjournment, opposition parties have announced a joint strategy to “grill” the government when the House meets again on Tuesday, March 11. With global oil volatility continuing to impact the domestic market, the government is expected to face intense pressure to justify its pricing formula and the high Petroleum Development Levy.
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