KARACHI, Dec 23: The Awami National Party, Sindh, has criticized the government for its failure to persuade transporters to reduce long-route bus fares despite falling prices of petroleum, oil and lubricants, especially diesel.

The party, which met here with its President, Khamoos Gul Khattak, in the chair, demanded cut in bus fares proportionate to the reduction in diesel price so that the common man travelling on long-route buses could also benefit from fall in oil prices.

The meeting expressed concern over the rising general price level and increasing unemployment and lawlessness in the country and demanded of the government to announce a relief package for the people.

The party took note of the rising tension between India and Pakistan, and called upon the Indian government that, instead of creating war hysteria, it should use all its resources to resolve all issues confronting the two countries in the light of the Simla Accord, as both countries had been facing enormous problems.

“If India imposed war on Pakistan, the ANP workers would play their role in defending the country,” the meeting resolved.

The party welcomed the participation of the ANP chief, Asfandyar Wali Khan, in the installation ceremony of the new Afghan government in Kabul.