By: Aasi Islamabad
When we talk about Pakistan’s economy, our focus often remains on the big issues—rampant inflation, devaluation of the currency, external debt burden, and fiscal deficits. But intertwined with these issues is another critical aspect we frequently overlook: the plight of millions of private employees in Pakistan. These are the people who toil day and night, yet see no improvement in their living conditions.
The Wrath of Inflation and Basic Necessities of Life:
Uncontrolled inflation has ensnared everyone, but the worst affected are those employed in the private sector. In recent years, the prices of essential commodities—bread, clothing, housing, groceries, milk, meat, vegetables, and lentils—have skyrocketed. If we examine the salary of an average private employee, it barely covers these basic necessities, if at all.
The relentless increase in petrol prices and transportation costs has added another layer of difficulty for these people. There was a time when the middle class could purchase a vehicle and solve their commuting problems, but that time is long gone. Today, filling up the tank is a monumental task. Public transportation is no better, with fares rising continuously and service quality deteriorating.
**The Burden of Electricity, Gas, Water, and PTCL Bills:**
Utility bills are another major issue exacerbating the struggles of private employees. The incessant increase in electricity rates, frequent gas supply interruptions, and rising water tariffs have turned their lives into a living hell. Then there’s PTCL—an institution infamous for its inefficiencies and substandard services, yet quick to demand hefty bills. All these bills combined create an unbearable burden on private employees.
Housing Rents and the Struggles of Finding Shelter:
Housing is another significant problem for these employees. Rents have soared dramatically in recent years. In major cities across Pakistan, rent has reached such astronomical levels that securing decent accommodation has become an unattainable dream for the middle class. Those without their own homes are forced to live in rented houses, and the constant rent hikes only add to their financial woes.
Job Insecurity:
For those working in the private sector, job insecurity is an ever-present threat. These workers live in constant fear that their jobs could be taken away at any moment, only to be replaced by someone willing to work for a lower wage. This fear has turned their lives into a bitter struggle.
On one hand, the number of government employees is around 6 to 7 hundred thousand, and their salaries are increased with every budget. On the other hand, millions of private employees receive no such benefits. Their wages don’t increase, and often, they don’t even receive their paychecks on time. They have no benefits, no pensions, and no social security.
**The Selfishness of the Business Community:**
The selfishness of the business community and traders has also added to the misery of this segment. These individuals raise prices at the slightest increase in costs, ensuring their own survival while the burden of higher prices falls squarely on the shoulders of private employees. These workers are forced to pay more for basic goods and services, barely making ends meet.
**Social Inequality and Government Apathy:**
What’s most disheartening is that neither the government nor any other institution pays attention to this social inequality, nor do they devise any strategies to address it. Those in power are absorbed in their political gains, leaving no time for the welfare of the public. Their entire focus is on self-promotion and political maneuvering, while the majority of the country is trapped in unending struggles.
**A Question Mark?**
The question today is: when will the rights of private employees in this country be recognized? When will they be compensated fairly for their hard work? When will they be given the right to live a dignified life? These are the questions we all need to ask ourselves and our leaders.
This column is written to shake your conscience. Will you listen to this cry? Will you respond to this plea? Or will you, as always, remain indifferent?
This nation cannot progress until every citizen is provided with equal opportunities and justice. And this justice will only be possible when those in power and the business community change their ways.
By: Aasi Islamabad
