The Need for Compassion in Ramadan Mubarak: A Call to Action in Pakistan

As the blessed month of Ramadan Mubarak dawns upon us, it brings with it an opportunity for reflection, self-discipline, and spiritual renewal. This sacred month is a time to embody the values of compassion, patience, and unity. However, the current situation in Pakistan calls for a deeper introspection and a collective effort to address the challenges faced by our society, particularly the unnecessary and fake inflation created by local business owners.

The Essence of Compassion in Ramadan

Ramadan is a time when Muslims around the world engage in fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. It is a month that teaches us the virtues of patience, selflessness, and empathy towards others. The Holy Quran and Hadith emphasize the importance of compassion and mercy in our daily lives.

• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:143): "Thus, We have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you."
• Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107): "And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds."
• Hadith (Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 473): The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Make things easy and do not make things difficult. Calm people and do not arouse their aversion."

These teachings remind us that compassion is not just a virtue but a responsibility that we must uphold, especially during Ramadan.

The Issue of Fake Inflation

Despite the spiritual significance of Ramadan, it is disheartening to witness the artificial inflation created by local business owners in Pakistan. This practice not only burdens the common people but also contradicts the very essence of Ramadan. The unnecessary price hikes on essential commodities during this holy month are driven by greed and a lack of ethical business practices.

According to recent reports, Pakistan's inflation rate has seen a significant decline, reaching its lowest level in over nine years2. However, the artificial inflation during Ramadan is a result of market manipulation, hoarding, and profiteering by local business owners. This exploitation of demand during a sacred month is deeply unethical and un-Islamic.

Lessons from Other Countries

In contrast, many other Muslim-majority countries have implemented measures to ensure price stability during Ramadan. For instance:

• Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar: These countries maintain stable prices through government-imposed price controls and strict market monitoring. Some essential items even see discounts due to Ramadan promotions in supermarkets.
• Turkey and Malaysia: Governments actively intervene through subsidies and regulatory oversight to prevent significant price hikes.
• Bangladesh and Indonesia: Price caps and government-stocked food programs help mitigate extreme spikes in prices.

These examples highlight the importance of ethical business practices and government intervention to ensure that the spirit of Ramadan is upheld.

A Call to Action

As we observe Ramadan Mubarak, let us remember the true essence of this holy month. It is a time to extend our compassion to those in need, to practice ethical business conduct, and to strive for social justice. We must collectively work towards curbing the artificial inflation and ensuring that every individual can enjoy the blessings of Ramadan without undue financial burden.

Let us pray for the progress, prosperity, and security of Pakistan, and may Allah grant us the understanding of the true essence of Ramadan and the ability to act upon its teachings.

Ramadan Mubarak to all!