Ex-MLA Javed Hussain Voices Urgent Need for Reforms Amidst Traders' Protest in Gilgit-Baltistan

Former MLA Javed Hussain has highlighted critical administrative and social issues in Gilgit-Baltistan during a traders' protest in Sost village. Alongside supporting court rulings against local taxes, he called for significant governance reforms to address persisting problems and improve the region's overall conditions.

Former MLA of the Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, Javed Hussain, drew attention to pressing administrative and social issues during a traders' protest in Sost village. Speaking to Pamir Times, Hussain criticized the current state of affairs, stressing the need for effective strategies and improved governance to address these issues and enhance overall conditions.

Hussain endorsed the cessation of tax collection, aligning with a recent ruling by the PoGB Chief Court that deemed several local taxes illegal. He remarked, "The administration must abide by the court's decision. Customs officials and the regional collector are obstructing trade resumption. A commission should investigate them for having ulterior motives." Traders from PoGB have started a sit-in protest at the NLC Dry Port in Sost, calling for the enforcement of a court directive on tax exemptions for cross-border trade with China via the Khunjerab Pass. This demonstration has halted trade operations, with traders threatening to escalate measures, such as blocking the Karakoram Highway, if their demands are not met. They claim that government actions are unjustly hindering their trade and employment prospects.

In his discussion with Pamir Times, Hussain elaborated on the lackluster management and insufficient reforms across various sectors, noting that despite numerous attempts, the results had been discouraging. He highlighted the need for significant and effective changes to resolve longstanding issues. He pointed out inadequacies in managing crucial problems, leading to public frustration. Hussain suggested a more proactive approach is necessary to tackle these issues and improve conditions. "The protest will continue. This is an important issue of Gilgit Baltistan. It will decide the future of small traders. With the support of the people, I think the matter will be resolved," Hussain told Pamir Times.

According to a report from Pamir Times, traders in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) initiated a protest following a writ petition by the PoGB Importer and Exporter Association. The court had issued a stay order preventing customs authorities from collecting various taxes at the Sost border station until a final decision is made. However, traders allege that customs officers and the Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) are employing delaying tactics to avoid implementing the court's order.

Taxation issues in Pakistan, especially in regions like PoGB, are complex and involve multiple layers. Traders often face inconsistent enforcement of tax laws across different areas, leading to confusion and disputes. Rapid changes in tax policies further complicate matters, making it costly and challenging for traders to comply with new regulations.

Despite court rulings against certain taxes, enforcing these decisions remains a challenge due to delays and resistance from authorities. Corruption among tax officials is also a significant issue, with traders sometimes encountering demands for bribes or facilitation payments, adding to compliance difficulties and costs. Delays in processing tax documents and refunds exacerbate cash flow problems for traders, compounding their challenges in conducting business effectively.

(With inputs from agencies.)