Traders across Pakistan are on Hadtal (strike), protesting against the new taxes and soaring electricity and gas bills. Ajmal Baloch, the head of the All Pakistan Traders’ Association, mentioned that no talks are currently happening with the government, which is why the strike is widespread throughout the country.
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Strikes in Different Cities
Markets from Karachi to KPK have shut down due to this hadtal. Earlier, Kashif Chaudhry, the Central President of Anjuman-e-Tajiran, dismissed the government’s negotiations as mere “theatrics” and insisted that the protest would continue.
In Lower Dir, the local business community has also planned a complete strike to protest against taxes and high power bills. In Mardan, Jamaat-i-Islami has strongly supported the strike.
Strike Today: Key Updates and Reactions
At a press conference, Ghulam Rasool, a district leader of Jamaat-i-Islami, along with other key figures like Ibrahim Biland, Saeed Akhtar Advocate, Manzoorul Haq, Jehanzeb, and Fazalullah, expressed their full support for the Hadtal.
Ghulam Rasool criticized the government’s harsh policies, stating that a small group is imposing heavy burdens on the entire nation. He assured that Jamaat-i-Islami would fully support and participate in the strike, aiming to make it as successful and impactful as possible.
Meanwhile, Malik Shakeel Awan, the central president of another traders’ group, announced that they would hold protest rallies and shut down businesses on Wednesday. Awan pointed out that both consumers and traders are grappling with high electricity bills due to new surcharges and steep rate increases.
During a virtual meeting with traders from various cities including Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, and Peshawar, Rashid Mahmood Langrial assured that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) would consider all valid demands from traders. However, he clarified that the Tajir Dost Scheme would not be canceled.
Langrial also noted that Pakistan is one of the few countries where retail and wholesale taxes are not imposed, adding that it is unfair to place a heavier tax burden on weaker sectors compared to stronger ones.
Demands of Traders
Kashif Chaudhry highlighted that traders stand together in their demand for reduced electricity prices and a reassessment of Independent Power Producer (IPP) agreements. He stressed the need for economic reform and viewed the ongoing protest as a move in that direction.
Haji Shahid, a leader of the traders’ association, spoke about how the public is suffering due to the policies influenced by the International Monetary Fund.
In response, Rashid Mahmood Langrial, Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), assured traders that their legitimate concerns would be addressed. However, he confirmed that the Tajir Dost Scheme would stay in place.
