KARACHI:
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is a festival celebrated by Muslims all over the world. Families come together to enjoy traditional delicacies and exchange gifts. However, with the recent price hike in essential commodities, millions of families across Pakistan are finding it difficult to celebrate Eid with the same spirit and joy.
High prices of daily necessities have forced families to reduce their expenses and compromise on their Eid celebrations as well. This has raised frustration and disappointment among low-income groups. However, the spirit of Eid is not limited to materialistic things, it lies in the joy and happiness that comes from being together with loved ones. Different segments of society should come together to help those who are suffering by either supporting them monetarily or providing them with food, clothes, etc. People must come together as a community and organise Eid celebrations that are affordable and accessible to everyone. Instead of focusing on our own celebrations, we must volunteer our time and resources to help others in need. This can include volunteering at a local charity or helping at a community centre.
The government has a responsibility to ensure the availability of affordable commodities during the festive season, especially during an economic crisis. The government should have controlled prices of essential commodities during the festive season to ensure that they are affordable for all. The government could set up a public distribution system to provide essential commodities such as food and clothing to poor families at affordable prices. The government should improve awareness about financial management and budgeting as it can help people plan and manage their expenses better. Eid is a time of joy and celebration, and everyone should be able to celebrate it with the same spirit and enthusiasm.
Shehzad Hussain
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, April 21st, 2023.
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