A diverse group of protesters gathered at Liaquat Bagh for a sit-in organized by Jamaat-i-Islami. Participants from central and southern Punjab and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa expressed their discontent with the government’s increase in power tariffs and heavy taxes in the federal budget.
The protest, now in its second day, caused disruptions to business activities along Murree Road in Rawalpindi as containers blocked traffic flow. Around 3,000 workers attended, choosing to occupy the road despite tent installations in the park by the JI leadership.
Protesters like Mohammad Anwar from Okara and Bashir Ahmed from Bahawalnagar voiced their concerns over inflation and pledged to stay despite the hot weather. Some complained about the lack of bathrooms and arrangements for water.
Local JI leader, Malik Azam, assured that the party was providing meals and mats for prayer to participants. The sit-in’s future was set to be decided by leadership, promising further action against economic challenges.
Published in Dawn, July 28th, 2024