ELIMINATING INFLATION: THE STATE’S CONSTITUTIONA...

Summary

• While people struggle to afford food, electricity and other necessities, public expenditure on official privileges raises serious questions about the government’s priorities.
• Before imposing further burdens on citizens, the government must reduce avoidable expenditure and ensure the fair collection and responsible use of public money.
• The government must reconsider its priorities by reducing unnecessary official expenditure, ensuring fair taxation, preventing exploitation and investing in essential public services.

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By Rao Ghulam Qadir

Advocate High Court, LL. M (Candidate) SAHSOL-LUMS

Inflation is not merely an economic problem; it is a question of public welfare and social justice. In Pakistan, where a large section of the population struggles to afford basic necessities, rising prices have made everyday life increasingly difficult. The Constitution of Pakistan, 1973, establishes principles that require the State to promote public welfare, reduce economic disparities and protect citizens against exploitation.

Article 38 of the Constitution requires the State to promote the well-being of the people by raising their standard of living, provide basic necessities, including food, clothing, housing, education and medical relief, reduce disparities in income and earnings, and prevent the concentration of wealth and distribution in a few hands.

Unfortunately, government policies often appear disconnected from the difficulties faced by ordinary citizens. While people struggle to afford food, electricity and other necessities, public expenditure on official privileges raises serious questions about the government’s priorities. Reports concerning the purchase of luxury vehicles for Punjab government officials, including cabinet members, illustrate this concern. Similarly, the use of multiple vehicles for official protocol seems difficult to justify when many citizens struggle to arrange even two meals a day. Although necessary security arrangements are understandable, unnecessary luxuries should not be financed through taxpayers’ money.