Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) has strongly opposed the imposition of new taxes in Malakand Division, describing the move as “grossly unjust” and calling on the federal government to withdraw the decision immediately.
Senator Darwish’s Statement
In a statement, JUI-F Senator Maulana Atta-ul-Haq Darwish said the proposed taxes violated the constitutional and legal protections enjoyed by Malakand Division and undermined the rights guaranteed to its residents. He said the government was duty-bound to honour its constitutional commitments and the assurances previously given to the people of the region.
Economic Hardship for Residents
Senator Darwish argued that the residents of Malakand, already burdened by the long-term effects of earthquakes, floods and years of militancy, could not withstand additional economic pressure. He warned that the imposition of sales tax and Federal Excise Duty under the federal budget would deal a severe blow to the local economy, discourage investment and business activity, and further aggravate the financial difficulties faced by the area’s residents.
Parliamentary Action
Referring to his adjournment motion, the senator said it was aimed at drawing Parliament’s attention to the serious economic consequences of the proposed taxation measures. He demanded the immediate suspension of the decision and the restoration of the longstanding tax exemptions previously available to Malakand Division.
Future Plans
The JUI-F lawmaker also pledged to raise the issue at every available forum, both inside and outside Parliament, to protect what he described as the legitimate constitutional rights of the people of Malakand Division.
