The All Pakistan Anjuman Tajran (APAT) announced on Monday that they will be holding a complete shutter-down strike across the country on August 28. The protest is in response to what they describe as a “cruel tax” imposed by the government under the Tajir Dost scheme. APAT has called on traders nationwide to close their shops and businesses to voice their opposition to the new tax measures, which they believe unfairly burden the business community.
Ajmal Baloch, the president of APAT, stated that traders will close all businesses nationwide to protest against these taxes.
Baloch criticized the government’s attempts to negotiate, labeling the efforts as mere tactics to halt the strike.
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He emphasized that the government must withdraw the contentious tax scheme, warning that if not, a two-day strike would follow.
Baloch highlighted the severe financial strain on traders, citing a 70 percent reduction in business activity and the burden of valuation table taxes, rising electricity bills, and shop rents.
JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman has also endorsed the strike, urging his party members to ensure the participation in the strike.