Traders in Oghi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Threaten Strike Over New Excise Tax
In Oghi, a town in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, local traders are upset about a new excise tax imposed by the government. They have warned that they will go on an indefinite strike if forced to pay this tax. The business community, already struggling due to economic challenges, is frustrated by the additional financial burden.
Traders’ Concerns
Attaullah Tanoli, the president of Awan-i-Tajart, Oghi, expressed the traders’ difficulties, stating that the business community is already facing tough times due to various direct and indirect taxes. He highlighted that rising inflation has reduced people’s purchasing power, leading to declining sales.
Abdul Razzaq, vice-president of Awan-i-Tajart, Oghi, shared similar concerns. He mentioned that traders are already dealing with high electricity costs and multiple taxes, making it hard to manage household and educational expenses. The new tax adds to their financial strain.
Government’s Perspective
Atif Qayyum, the district excise and taxation officer, explained that the excise tax is part of the Urban Immovable Property Tax Act of 1958. The department is gradually applying it to areas that were previously exempt. He stated that the tax aims to support regional development and prosperity.
Despite the government’s justification, traders are determined to protest unless the tax is revoked.
Doubts Revealed
Oghi -: Oghi is a small town in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It’s a place where many people run small businesses and shops.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa -: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is one of the provinces in Pakistan. It’s located in the northwestern part of the country and has many mountains and beautiful landscapes.
Excise Tax -: An excise tax is a special tax that is charged on certain goods or activities. It’s like an extra cost added to things like fuel, alcohol, or tobacco, and sometimes other products.
Indefinite Strike -: An indefinite strike means that the traders will stop working for an unknown period of time. They do this to show they are unhappy with something, like the new tax, and want it changed.
Inflation -: Inflation is when the prices of things go up over time. It means that money doesn’t buy as much as it used to, making it harder for people to afford things.
Attaullah Tanoli and Abdul Razzaq -: Attaullah Tanoli and Abdul Razzaq are leaders of the traders’ association in Oghi. They represent the business community and speak on their behalf about issues like taxes.
Atif Qayyum -: Atif Qayyum is a government official in the region. He is responsible for explaining government decisions, like the new tax, to the public.
