Oghi Traders Threaten Indefinite Strike Over New Excise Tax

Traders in Oghi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are threatening an indefinite strike if forced to pay a new excise tax. The business community, already struggling amid economic challenges, expresses outrage, arguing that rising prices and inflation have diminished purchasing power. Officials claim the tax supports regional development.

Traders in Oghi, situated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have expressed their intent to embark on an indefinite strike if the newly imposed excise tax is not revoked. The local business community is grappling with the financial burden posed by the tax, amid an economic slump, reports Dawn.

Attaullah Tanoli, the president of Awan-i-Tajart, firmly stated that the increased levy by the excise department is unacceptable in a period of economic hardship. He highlighted that inflation has drastically lessened the purchasing power, impacting sales adversely.

Abdul Razzaq, the vice-president, emphasized that the cumulative effect of higher electricity costs and multiple taxes have already strained traders. Meanwhile, excise officer Atif Qayyum defended the levy under the Urban Immovable Property Tax Act of 1958, aiming to promote regional progress. The standoff continues with the threat of protest looming, according to Dawn reports.

(With inputs from agencies.)