Rawalpindi Traders Announce Citywide Lockdown to Protest New Taxes
Traders in Rawalpindi, led by various associations, have announced a citywide lockdown on August 28 to protest against new taxes and high electricity tariffs. Mohammad Farooq, President of the Rawalpindi Caterers, Sweets, and Bakers Association, and other leaders are urging the government to review its tax policies. The strike is supported by traders in Charsadda, Mardan, Samarbagh, Talash, and Lower Dir, who will also close shops and markets in protest.
Key Figures and Statements
Mohammad Farooq has questioned the government’s spending and called for mandatory consultations with business leaders during policy formulation. Shahid Ghafoor Paracha highlighted the financial struggles and high electricity tariffs faced by traders. Sharjeel Mir emphasized the need for a more favorable business environment and reduced taxes.
Widespread Support
In addition to Rawalpindi, traders in Charsadda, Mardan, Samarbagh, Talash, and Lower Dir have also declared a complete shutter-down strike on August 28. Haroonur Rasheed, central president of a major traders’ association, criticized the government’s decision to impose additional taxes amid unprecedented inflation.
Doubts Revealed
Rawalpindi -: Rawalpindi is a city in Pakistan, near its capital, Islamabad. It’s known for its bustling markets and historical sites.
Lockdown -: A lockdown is when people are asked to stay in their homes and businesses close to prevent something bad from happening or to protest.
Protest -: A protest is when people gather to show they are unhappy about something, like new rules or taxes, and want changes.
Taxes -: Taxes are money that people and businesses have to pay to the government. The government uses this money to provide services like schools and roads.
Electricity tariffs -: Electricity tariffs are the prices people pay for using electricity. If tariffs are high, it means electricity is expensive.
Mohammad Farooq -: Mohammad Farooq is the President of the Rawalpindi Caterers, Sweets, and Bakers Association. He is one of the leaders organizing the protest.
Rawalpindi Caterers, Sweets, and Bakers Association -: This is a group of people who work in catering, making sweets, and baking in Rawalpindi. They have come together to address common issues.
Charsadda, Mardan, Samarbagh, Talash, and Lower Dir -: These are other cities and towns in Pakistan where traders are also supporting the protest by closing their shops and markets.
