Business leaders warn of strike over ‘draconian’ tax law
The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) on Thursday expressed full support for a complete nationwide strike if all chambers unanimously oppose Sections 37A and 37B of the Sales Tax Act, terming them “draconian” and detrimental to the business environment. Speaking at a press conference at KCCI, President Jawed Bilwani said the chamber, along with all seven industrial associations, would back any unified strike call against these provisions. “Posting banners and holding press conferences are just the beginning — protests will intensify until the government repeals Sections 37A and 37B entirely,” he warned. Bilwani revealed that officials from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had contacted him to discuss the formulation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for implementing Section 37A. However, he categorically rejected any such proposals, stating, “In line with the unanimous demand of the business community, we reject SOPs and reiterate our sole demand: complete repeal of Section 37A.”