Kaukab Iqbal, Chairman of the Consumers Association of Pakistan (CAP), has strongly condemned the continuous and alarming increase in medicine prices, stating that consumers are being pushed to the brink due to the unchecked actions of pharmaceutical companies.

He revealed that the Consumers Association of Pakistan has documented evidence showing that the prices of some medicines have increased by up to 300 percent, placing an unbearable burden on consumers. “This is not just an extra burden; it is absolutely unaffordable for the common man. Patients are being denied their basic right to healthcare,” he said.

Kaukab Iqbal questioned the role of the Federal Ministry of Health, asking why it has failed to challenge pharmaceutical companies and protect consumers’ rights. “There can be no compromise on health issues. Medicines are essential for survival, not commercial products to maximize profits,” he added.

He further expressed grave concern over the availability of fake and substandard medicines in the market, warning that this poses a serious threat to public health. He demanded that the Ministry of Interior immediately investigate the counterfeit medicine network and take strict legal action against those involved.

Kaukab Iqbal urged the Prime Minister of Pakistan to personally intervene in this critical issue and announce the formation of a high-level committee to review unjustified medicine price hikes. He emphasized that the committee must include representatives from the Consumers Association of Pakistan to ensure transparency and genuine consumer representation.

“The government must act now to regulate medicine prices, eliminate fake medicines, and protect the lives and rights of consumers,” he concluded.