ISLAMABAD: Setting aside internal differences, nearly all groups of traders and small businesses have united to observe a shutter-down strike today (Wednesday) against the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) Tajir Dost Scheme. Key trade bodies, including furniture makers and nanbais (roti and naan makers), have pledged to join the strike. Several political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami and JUI-F, have also voiced support for the traders’ cause, calling the strike justified.
Ajmal Baloch, head of the largest traders’ group, labeled the FBR as a corrupt and dishonest department. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Baloch announced that a complete shutdown would occur nationwide on Wednesday, August 28, in protest against the government’s economic policies and tax regulations. He, along with Shahid Ghafoor Paracha, President of Anjuman Tajiran Punjab, and Chaudhry Muhammad Farooq, President of the All Pakistan Restaurants Association, confirmed that the strike would proceed as planned, dismissing rumors of negotiations with the government.
Baloch refuted claims of ongoing discussions between traders and the government, asserting that the strike would only be called off if an official notification reinstating the trader-friendly scheme is issued. He warned that the strike could be extended indefinitely if the government fails to meet their demands. Baloch also criticized the government’s handling of the economy, highlighting the influence of the International Monetary F.