The gas tariff would remain unchanged until the winter months of December and January, Petroleum Minister Musadik Malik said on Tuesday.

“The gas tariff has not been increased and the government is striving to avoid placing any additional burden on the people,” he said at a press conference in Islamabad.

“If the need arises to provide relief, we will make decisions in consultation with all provinces and move forward together. However, our aim is to avoid increasing gas prices.”

98% of domestic electricity consumers, who use up to 500 units, have been provided relief by the Punjab government, he said and added that that 86% of those consuming up to 200 units have also received relief from the federal government. The petroleum minister urged other provincial governments to offer similar relief if they wish.

He urged political leaders to refrain from spreading “chaos” and participate in parliamentary committees to contribute to the nation’s development.

Musadik highlighted that “certain elements are attempting to create obstacles in the country’s progress, prosperity, and development. These are the people who do not want to see the country progress.”

Without taking a name, he said the “deputy chairman” was in jail for committing $190 million in corruption while the “real” chairman has also been arrested. “One has been arrested in the Top City corruption case, while the other is detained in a $190 million corruption case,” he added.