The protestors argue that the government has unjustly increased taxes under various pretexts, leaving traders and shopkeepers struggling to cope
By Sudhir Ahmad Afridi
LANDI KOTAL: The historic Landi Kotal Bazaar remained closed today as traders and local residents rallied against the federal government’s tax policies and hike in utility bills. The shutdown was part of a nationwide strike called by Jamaat-e-Islami and the Pakistan Traders’ Union, aimed at protesting against the imposition of excessive taxes and the soaring cost of living.
The closure saw all shops and market stalls in Landi Kotal, a key commercial hub in the tribal areas, remained closed. The protestors, including traders, shopkeepers, and local members of Jamaat-e-Islami staged a demonstration highlighting their discontent with the government’s economic policies. They voiced strong opposition to the increasing tax burdens and criticized the government’s handling of inflation, which they argue has severely diminished the purchasing power of ordinary citizens.
The rally featured chanting against the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and the high taxes levied on traders. The protestors accused the government of exacerbating the financial strain on businesses and consumers alike. They argued that the government has unjustly increased taxes under various pretexts, leaving traders and shopkeepers struggling to cope. Moreover, they expressed outrage over the exorbitant electricity tariffs, which they claim are unaffordable for the average person.
The demonstrators also highlighted their dissatisfaction with the government’s policy of granting IPPs billions of rupees in capacity charges, while these entities remain exempt from income tax. Local leaders from Jamaat-e-Islami and the Traders’ Union accused the federal administration of neglecting the needs of the business community and failing to address their grievances. They pointed out that despite the government’s claims of addressing economic issues, the practical impact on the ground has been detrimental.
In addition to the economic grievances, the protestors also emphasized the broader implications of the government’s policies on the daily lives of citizens. The ongoing strike and the complete shutdown of Landi Kotal’s bustling marketplace reflect the deep-seated frustration and the urgent call for a reassessment of economic policies affecting traders and the general public. As the protest continues, the business community in Landi Kotal and other tribal areas remains resolute in their demands for fair tax policies and more manageable utility costs. The strike serves as a stark reminder of the growing discontent among traders and the broader population regarding the current economic conditions.
