The country-wide strike called by Jamaat-e-Islami against rising inflation and taxes has led to a significant disruption in daily life. Major business hubs in Karachi, including Jama Cloth Market, Jodia Bazaar, Medicine Market, Bottle Gully, Haidery Market, Korangi Market, Bolton Markets, remain closed. Petrol pumps in North Karachi are also reported to be shut. The strike has noticeably reduced transportation across various areas.
Trader organizations and several political parties have endorsed today’s strike. The Oil Tankers Association has also supported the strike. Muhammad Rizwan, President of the Electronics Dealers Association in Karachi, stated that traders from Karachi to Khyber are participating in the strike. He warned that if issues are not resolved, the strike duration might be extended. Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi’s Ameer criticized the government’s imposition of unnecessary taxes on salaried and business communities, asserting that the movement will continue.
Jamaat-e-Islami activists are protesting in different areas of Karachi, causing traffic disruptions. Police have reported that most major markets in the city are closed, but there have been no reports of forceful closures of shops. In Islamabad, the administration has blocked routes to the Red Zone with containers in anticipation of the protest.
The strike reflects widespread discontent with current economic policies and highlights the growing frustration among business and trade communities across Pakistan.
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