Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) take a seat-in at Liaquat Bagh, Rawalpindi, has entered its 2d day, with the birthday party offering a list of ten needs aimed at supplying alleviation to the public and addressing economic issues. The demands consist of a 50% reduction in electricity payments for purchasers using up to 500 units monthly, the elimination of the petroleum improvement levy, an instantaneous rollback of recent increases in petroleum product charges, and a 20% discount on the costs of critical items.
Additionally, Jamaat-e-Islami calls for the elimination of taxes on academic materials, a 35% reduction in non-development expenditures, and the termination of capacity fee and dollar price agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs). They also demand a 50% reduction in the tax burden on agriculture and industry, ensuring industrial and commercial investment to keep the economy running and alleviating the tax burden on the salaried poor while calling for tax collection from the privileged class.
Government’s Response and Negotiation Efforts
In response to the sit-in, the government has engaged in negotiation attempts, forming a committee to address JI’s demands. A government delegation, including Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, met with JI’s leadership, requesting an end to the protest. However, JI rejected the immediate termination of the sit-in but agreed to negotiate. Vice Amir Liaqat Baloch leads JI’s four-member committee in these talks. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also engaged in telephonic discussions with Liaqat Baloch, emphasizing the government’s seriousness in negotiations. However, JI expressed reservations about the government committee, pointing out the absence of relevant ministers for interior and energy.
Continued Protest and Warnings
During the protest, JI’s Ameer Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman warned the government that fascist tactics and negotiations could not coexist. He demanded a forensic audit of IPPs and the cancellation of unfair agreements. He stressed the need to abolish export duties and unjust taxes on salaried individuals, asserting that the sit-in symbolizes hope for the nation’s citizens. Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman stated that JI would persist until they secure relief for the people. A historic public gathering was planned for Sunday evening, with women also participating. He criticized the government’s committee announcement, urging a serious and empowered committee for negotiations and demanding the release of arrested workers and leave of cases before any talks.
Support and Solidarity
Addressing the gathering, former JI Ameer Siraj ul Haq expressed that the sit-in in the sweltering heat symbolizes hope for a prosperous Pakistan, heralding change and prosperity. He and leaders Liaqat Baloch, Dr. Osama, Mian Aslam, Dr. Atta ur Rehman, and Ameer ul Azeem showed solidarity with the protest. Various caravans continued to arrive, reinforcing the sit-in’s strength and determination.
