Islamabad sit-in: Relief for masses our only demand: Hafiz Naeem

Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, the Emir of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), has announced the party’s intention to stage Islamabad sit-in on July 12, demanding relief for the masses amidst the contentious budget 2024-25.

Addressing the media in Lahore, Naeem emphasized that their sole demand from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is to provide relief to the nation before the situation becomes irreparable. He expressed concerns over the recent approval of the tax-heavy Finance Bill 2024, signed into law by President Asif Ali Zardari following its passage in the National Assembly.

The budget sets a daunting tax revenue target of Rs13 trillion for the fiscal year starting July 1, marking a substantial increase from the previous year. This includes significant hikes in both direct and indirect taxes, as well as a considerable rise in non-tax revenue sources such as petroleum levies.

Criticism of the budget has been widespread, with opposition parties including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leaders Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Miftah Ismail denouncing its implications.

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Hafiz Naeem clarified that the JI’s protest aims to highlight the economic hardships faced by ordinary citizens without resorting to chaos or violence. He reiterated that the party is not aligned with any political faction and plans to conduct the sit-in with support from the public.

In a separate statement in Islamabad, Naeem announced the launch of the “Haq Do Awaam Ko” movement, underscoring their commitment to advocating for relief measures for the people. He criticized the government for burdening the populace with excessive taxes and called for urgent measures to alleviate inflation, which has surged since the budget’s announcement.

The JI leader affirmed their readiness for a sustained Islamabad sit-in and protest, indicating that their demonstration will extend beyond a few days. He pledged to engage with various sectors of society, including traders, industrialists, laborers, and students, to mobilize support for their cause.