Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has been leading a sit-in protest on Murree Road, Liaquat Bagh, for the past five days, presenting 10 demands to the government. The demands range from ending the Petroleum Development Levy on petroleum products to renegotiating agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and reducing taxes on various sectors.
Despite the government’s efforts to negotiate, JI has expressed frustration over the delayed response and lack of concrete actions. A three-member government delegation, including Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Minister for Energy Awais Leghari, and MNA Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, met with JI leadership on Saturday night, extending an invitation for talks. However, JI has sought Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s guarantee on the negotiations, insisting that any agreement reached must bear his signature.
The sit-in protest has entered its fifth day, with participants remaining steadfast in their demands despite the ongoing monsoon rains. JI’s firm stance on their demands has raised questions about the government’s willingness to negotiate and find a resolution.
The demands presented by JI are centered around economic reforms, tax reductions, and renegotiation of agreements with IPPs. The party has also demanded a 20% reduction in prices of food commodities, electricity, and gas tariffs, as well as a withdrawal of the increase in taxes on the salaried class.
As the stalemate continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will meet JI’s demands or find a middle ground. The situation highlights the challenges faced by the government in addressing the economic concerns of the people and the need for effective communication and negotiation.
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