Traders across Pakistan will hold a nationwide shutterdown strike on August 28, responding to the government’s refusal to withdraw the controversial Tajir Dost Scheme. Kashif Chaudhry, President of the Traders Association, announced the strike after the government failed to address key concerns.
Chaudhry revealed that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has been in regular contact, but after two months of unproductive talks, he stated, “We will no longer continue negotiations without concrete action.”
The strike targets the government’s decision to maintain the Tajir Dost Scheme and its unwillingness to revise agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs). Chaudhry emphasized that traders will not deposit advance tax under the scheme until the government abolishes it. He also warned that if the government does not issue a notification by the evening of August 28, negotiations will end.
The strike has also received widespread support from traders, industrialists, political parties, and the general public. Chaudhry commented, “The people, including political parties, stand with us against the government’s oppressive policies.”
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Moreover, the strike is set to be a significant display of unity from Pakistan’s business community. Millions are preparing to join the protest, demonstrating their collective opposition to what they view as governmental abuse and economic mismanagement.