On February 16, 2026, the Pakistani government announced an increase in petroleum prices, raising petrol by 5 PKR to 258.17 PKR per liter and high-speed diesel by 7.32 PKR to 275.70 PKR per liter. This decision has sparked significant public outrage and legal action, with the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) vehemently opposing the increase. PPP spokesperson Shazia Mari labeled the price hike a 'petrol bomb' and criticized the government for exacerbating the difficulties faced by inflation-stricken citizens, especially with Ramadan approaching. She stated, 'The government has added to the difficulties of the inflation-stricken public instead of providing relief,' highlighting the contradiction of a Ramadan relief package alongside rising prices. Senior PPP leader Sharjeel Inam Memon echoed this sentiment, arguing that the price hike will severely impact the budgets of the middle class, urging the government to reconsider its decision to provide economic relief instead of burdening the public further.