INFLATION in Pakistan has reached an alarming level, affecting every segment of society, but its impact on the middle class, particularly white-collar workers, has been devastating.
These individuals, who form the backbone of the country’s economy and administration, are facing immense financial strain yet remain silent, bound by societal expectations and personal dignity.
Unlike daily wage earners or labourers who can voice their struggles openly, the white-collar worker suffers in silence, unwilling or unable to seek help despite dire circumstances.
For the middle class, especially those employed in offices, banks, educational institutions and various government departments, survival has become a daily challenge.
Their incomes remain stagnant while the cost of living continues to rise at an unprecedented pace.
Food prices have soared, utility bills have become unbearable and transportation costs have significantly increased.
Despite working tirelessly, they find themselves unable to maintain the lifestyle they once took for granted.
One of the most pressing concerns is the education of their children.
Quality education, once considered a basic necessity for middle-class families, is now a luxury.
School fees, tuition charges and the cost of books and uniforms have escalated beyond affordability.
Parents are forced to either downgrade their children’s education by shifting them to less expensive schools or compromise on other essential household needs.
The thought of depriving their children of good education weighs heavily on their minds, yet they have little choice.
Medical expenses add another layer of distress.
With healthcare costs rising exponentially, even a minor illness can disrupt an entire month’s budget.
Private hospitals and clinics charge exorbitantly, while public hospitals remain overcrowded and underfunded.
Many middle-class families have resorted to self-medication or delaying medical treatments, risking their health due to financial constraints.
House rents and utility bills have further compounded their troubles.
Many employees, despite working in well-reputed organizations, struggle to pay monthly rent, forcing them to move to smaller homes in less desirable neighbourhoods.
Electricity, gas and water bills continue to increase, leaving families with little to spare for other necessities.
Despite their hard work and dedication, the fear of financial collapse looms over them.
Unlike those from lower-income groups who might receive financial aid or support from charities, the middle class has no safety net.
They are ineligible for government subsidies or social welfare programs, as their official incomes make them appear financially stable.
In reality, they live paycheck to paycheck, sacrificing personal comforts and sometimes even necessities to maintain appearances.
Their silent suffering is often overlooked, as they do not protest or demand relief, fearing social stigma or professional repercussions.
Social obligations add another burden.
Weddings, family gatherings and even religious events demand expenses that they cannot afford but are forced to bear.
The pressure to maintain societal status leads many into debt, taking loans they struggle to repay.
The concept of saving for the future has become nearly impossible, with many living in constant financial anxiety, unsure of how they will manage unforeseen emergencies.
The psychological impact of this economic pressure is profound.
Stress and anxiety have become constant companions of white-collar workers, affecting their mental and physical health.
The fear of losing their job, the inability to meet family expectations and the daily struggle to stretch every rupee lead to emotional distress.
Many suffer in silence, unable to share their burden even with close friends or family members.
Despite these hardships, the resilience of the middle class is commendable.
They continue to work diligently, hoping for better days.
Their silent perseverance is a testament to their strength, yet it is also a reflection of a society that has failed to acknowledge their struggles.
Policymakers must recognize this hidden crisis and take concrete steps to provide relief to this crucial segment of the population.
Controlling inflation, ensuring fair wages and offering financial assistance for education and healthcare could help ease their burden.
The middle class has long been the pillar of stability for the nation, contributing to economic growth and social progress.
If their struggles continue to be ignored, the consequences will be far-reaching.
A demoralized, financially strained middle class could lead to decreased productivity, brain drain and long-term economic stagnation.
It is time to address their concerns before their silent suffering turns into a crisis that affects the entire nation.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Islamabad. (ememiqbal68@gmail.com)
