Jamaat-e-Islami Third Round Talks with Government End in Stalemate
The third round of talks between Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and the government concluded in a stalemate as the party persisted with its demands to end the sit-in. The government delegation, including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Atta Tarar, engaged in discussions with the JI delegation led by Liaquat Baloch.
Information Minister Atta Tarr mentioned positive discussions with the JI committee and announced another dialogue session for Wednesday. Liaquat Baloch emphasized that they would not compromise on their demands, which focus on providing relief to the people rather than personal gains.
The JI’s sit-in, now in its 13th day, aims to address public issues such as reducing petrol and electricity prices and reviewing Independent Power Producers (IPPs) agreements. The JI presented ten demands, seeking Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s guarantee for ongoing talks and insisting on his signature on any agreement reached. The upcoming fourth round of talks is scheduled for Wednesday.
Demands:
• Abolition of levy on Petroleum Development
• 20% reduction in prices of essential commodities, electricity, and gas
• Renegotiation of IPP agreements and reduction of taxes in various sectors
• Incentives for industries, withdrawal of taxes on certain classes, and cuts in non-development expenses
• Removal of taxes on education-related items