LAHORE: The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has announced plans for a countrywide strike on September 2nd in protest against the increase in electricity prices. The decision was made during a JI meeting chaired by the party’s chief, Siraj ul Haq, in Lahore. JI spokesperson Qaiser Shareef stated that committees have been formed to organize the strike.
According to the spokesperson, Siraj ul Haq will hold meetings with trade bodies tomorrow. The spokesperson also mentioned that individuals from all walks of life will be taking part in the nationwide strike. The spokesperson expressed appreciation for the backing received from industrialists and traders in support of the strike.
He stated that peaceful protests against inflation will continue for the next five days. This indicates a sustained effort by the JI to voice their concerns about rising prices and their impact on the public.
Protests against the inflated power bills have spread across the country, with demonstrations turning violent in some areas. In Karachi, citizens protested against high bills issued by K-Electric, claiming that the bills exceeded their salaries. In Peshawar, citizens expressed their discontent, and in Rawalpindi, protesters burned bills and demanded the removal of imposed taxes on electricity. There were protests in other cities as well including Gujranwala, Narowal, Attock, Sargodha, Haripur, and many more.
The public outcry reflects the frustration over the increased financial burden caused by higher electricity tariffs, sparking widespread demonstrations and calls for relief from the rising costs.
PM Kakar’s Emergency Meeting Regarding High Electricity Bills Concludes Without A Breakthrough
Meanwhile, an emergency meeting chaired by caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar concluded with no concrete outcome. Power Division officials briefed the prime minister on electricity tariffs during the emergency meeting.
Protests triggered by inflated electricity bills continued for the third consecutive day in various parts of Pakistan. The PESCO requested police security amid fears of violence. Citizens, already grappling with soaring inflation, have taken to the streets to protest against substantial hikes in electricity tariffs.
PESCO sent a letter to the Capital City Police Chief requesting police deployment due to concerns about potential vandalism. Protests have included citizens blocking roads, burning bills, and staging rallies against the electricity bill hikes.
