Lahore-UNS: Chairman of the Markazi Kisan League MKL, Ch. Zulfiqar Ali Olakh, and President Ashfaq Virk have strongly condemned the unprecedented surge in sugar prices and accused the government of total failure in controlling the crisis. They said the government has completely surrendered to the sugar mafia, allowing them to exploit both the system and the public without consequence. The leaders stated that while the sugar mafia received billions in subsidies and export permissions under the guise of surplus stock, they deliberately created artificial shortages in the local market, forcing sugar prices to skyrocket. “Last year, despite the export of 750,000 tons of sugar, local prices remained out of control. Now, the government’s decision to import another 750,000 tons is a clear admission of policy failure,” they said. They pointed out that according to recent data, sugar prices have crossed Rs. 200 per kg — a steep rise from Rs. 145.88 per kg a year ago. “This is not merely a result of poor market management but a direct outcome of collusion between mafias and certain elements within the government,” they added. Raising serious questions over policy contradictions, the leaders said, “If subsidies were granted during exports, why has the government now waived all taxes and duties on imports? Such conflicting decisions raise serious concerns over the transparency and seriousness of the government’s approach.” They demanded an independent and impartial investigation into sugar mill owners’ production costs, stock holdings, and export claims. “Strict accountability of those responsible for orchestrating the sugar crisis is imperative,” Ashfaq Work emphasized. The leaders further stated that the country’s farmers are already facing immense pressure due to rising input costs, water shortages, and unjust policies. “Now, sugarcane growers are also caught in uncertainty due to this crisis. If immediate reforms are not introduced, the agricultural economy will suffer irreversible damage,” they warned.
