KARACHI: Leaders of Central Traders Association (CTA) and Sindh Trade Union (STA) have announced a nationwide strike on August 28 against high electricity prices and continuation of IPP contracts.
They warned that if their demands are not accepted, they may strike for two days or for an indefinite period. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Karachi Press Club on Sunday.
CTA president Kashif Chaudhry said that the aim of the strike is to protect the economy and prevent shutdown of industries. He asserted that the protest is not just a leadership issue but a business survival issue.
A strike will be held on August 28 in Karachi, Sindh and across the country. We are not only protesting against excessive electricity bills but also against fraudulent contracts of IPPs, payments of Rs 2800 billion and 13 taxes. No individual or business can afford such high electricity bills.
He criticized the imposition of Rs 60,000 monthly tax on shops terming it as a form of oppression. “With this tax, vendors will have to act as tax collectors for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). We reject advance tax notices and any FBR team inspecting the markets. If they come, we will surround them,” he warned.
Chaudhry also highlighted the need to change the trader-friendly scheme and stressed that direct talks with the Prime Minister would be sought as no one below his level would be allowed to modify the policies related to the IMF deal. There is no option.
Another prominent business leader Atiq Mir condemned the present government for neglecting the welfare of the people.
Mir said, “The rulers have increased electricity rates by taxing food items, leading to suicides over high bills. Instead of reducing the burden, they have exacerbated the crisis. The ruling class has not reduced its luxuries.” Rather, what has increased our difficulties”.
Balochistan representatives also pledged their support for the strike, signalling a broad-based protest movement.
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