PTI slams fuel price hike, announces AJK poll boycott

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has rejected the latest increase in petroleum prices and criticised the government over rising economic challenges.

The party described the fuel price hike as a burden on the public and accused the government of failing to provide relief despite changes in international oil markets.

PTI said reductions in global oil prices were not properly passed on to consumers, while increases were implemented quickly with additional taxes.

The party also announced a boycott of the upcoming Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections, claiming that the current situation in the region did not allow free and fair polls.

PTI alleged that restrictions, communication disruptions and the deployment of security personnel were being used to suppress public demands. It warned that elections held under such conditions would not represent true democracy.

The party demanded a judicial inquiry into the reported wheat shortage and accused the government of mishandling the issue despite claims of a bumper crop.

PTI claimed that wheat shortages had increased flour prices and created difficulties for farmers and ordinary citizens. It called for an investigation into wheat stocks and import decisions.

The party also demanded the release and medical treatment of its founder Imran Khan and other detained political workers.

PTI condemned recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan and paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives. However, it called for a wider approach to counter terrorism, including intelligence-based operations, political dialogue and addressing public grievances.

The party said long-term stability required an inclusive political process and fair distribution of resources among provinces.