The Joint Action Committee (JAAC) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has announced a region-wide shutter-down strike on December 5, protesting against the government’s economic policies. This decision follows weeks of escalating tensions between the business community and local authorities over tax reforms and rising operational costs.
Traders argue that new policies, including increased tax rates and restrictions on imports, have severely impacted small businesses. They demand immediate government intervention to address their grievances and provide relief to struggling enterprises.
The strike call has garnered widespread support from various business associations, signaling a unified stance against what they term as “anti-business” measures. JAAC leaders have warned that failure to address their demands could lead to prolonged protests, disrupting economic activities across the region.
Local officials, however, maintain that the reforms are necessary to stabilize the region’s finances. Negotiations are reportedly underway, but the JAAC insists on concrete actions rather than verbal assurances.
This strike underscores the growing discontent among AJK’s business community, reflecting broader economic challenges faced across Pakistan.
