Customs act: Strike observed in Malakand Division

Protesters held banners against the imposition of levies in tax-free zone

MINGORA/ BATKHELA: Business activities remained suspended in all the seven tehsils of Swat district on Wednesday as a strike was observed against the possible imposition of the customs act across Malakand Division. Demonstrations were held to denounce the decision by All-Parties Action Committee in Mingora.

Local leaders from all mainstream political parties participated in the protest. Representatives of traders’ unions, local government and a large number of residents were also present.

Addressing the protesters, Abdur Rahim, president of a traders’ union, said both the federal and provincial government are responsible for the proposed plan to impose the customs act on the people of Malakand Division.

“We don’t want the customs act and will resort to ceaseless protests against its imposition in the region,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, PTI MPA Fazal Hakeem said all the elected representatives of Malakand Division would resign from national and provincial assemblies, if the decision to impose the customs act is not reconsidered.

Meanwhile, residents of Batkhela, Malakand also observed a shutters-down strike on Wednesday as all businesses and schools remained closed against the decision. A rally started from old bus stand reached Zafar Park. Protesters held placards, banners and shouted anti-government slogans over imposition of taxes in a tax-free zone. Political leaders, traders’ unions and residents participated in the strike.

“We have warned the government to withdraw the decision.” JUI-F leader Maulana Javed said.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 28^th, 2016.