ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): President of Tanzeem Tajran Pakistan, Kashif Chaudhry, has strongly criticized the federal budget, calling it disappointing and unfair to the common man. In an exclusive conversation with Kashmir Digital, Kashif Chaudhry said the budget lacks practical steps to reduce poverty, support businesses, or bring ease to daily life.
Kashif Chaudhry said that before the budget, there were hopes that it would bring relief to the nation. However, unless electricity and gas prices are reduced and tax rates are made fair, the cost of production cannot be lowered. Without that, goods will remain expensive, and people will continue to suffer.
He added that this budget does nothing to address the issue of IPPs (Independent Power Producers) and electricity companies that are looting billions without actually producing power. Moreover, the 13 types of taxes on electricity haven’t been removed. Previously, there was a limit on electricity surcharges, but now the federal government has been given the authority to impose unlimited surcharges, burdening the public with Rs. 1,300 billion.
Kashif Chaudhry also highlighted the unfair tax system, pointing out that salaried individuals pay Rs. 500 billion in taxes, while landowners with hundreds of acres collectively pay only Rs. 4 to 5 billion. “If landlords and politicians sitting in assemblies don’t pay taxes, why is the burden being placed on traders and salaried people?” he questioned.
On one hand, the government raises salaries of government officials like Senate chairmen and ministers by 600%, but on the other hand, pensioners get no raise and traders face higher taxes. “If this isn’t injustice, then what is?” he said, adding that the nation is full of anxiety and frustration.
Kashif Chaudhry further added that a real public budget would focus on providing free education, quality healthcare, access to electricity, water, gas, proper infrastructure, safety for citizens, and jobs for the youth. “Until then, our struggle will continue — until Pakistan becomes the welfare and prosperous country envisioned by Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam.”
