Oil and Food Shortages Could Lead to Famine; Immediate Restrictions Are a Temporary Solution
Karachi (March 18, 2026): The Founder and Chairman of Saylani Welfare International Trust, Maulana Muhammad Bashir Farooqi Qadri, has expressed deep concern over the potentially dangerous consequences of the Iran-Israel conflict and a recent United Nations report warning that approximately 45 million people could face hunger.
In light of these alarming developments, he has appealed to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, to immediately impose restrictions on meals served at wedding ceremonies, allowing only light refreshments. He noted that a similar measure was successfully implemented nearly two decades ago to curb excessive consumption and conserve resources.
In a statement, he said that media reports and credible institutional analyses indicate that the current crisis could intensify in the future, potentially leading to a famine-like situation. Therefore, it is imperative to take preventive measures in advance. He emphasized that during past austerity campaigns, a ban was imposed on elaborate meals at weddings and other social events, and the time has come once again to take the nation into confidence to prevent a food shortage in Pakistan.
He also expressed concern over the negative impact on business activities in the country and welcomed the government’s decision to observe the March 23 parade in a simplified manner. He added that promoting a culture of austerity at the grassroots level—particularly by restricting meals at wedding events—could help protect the country from food shortages and soaring inflation.
Furthermore, he reiterated his earlier proposals in view of the possible increase in oil prices, urging the government to ban all unnecessary official activities and to limit fuel quotas for the elite class.
