Bashir Hussain Azad
Chitral, July 21, 2026: A complete shutter-down strike was observed by traders in Chitral Lower and Upper on Tuesday against the proposed imposition of taxes in Malakand Division.
All major markets, shopping centres and business establishments remained closed throughout the day, bringing commercial activity to a complete halt.
The strike also received broad public support. All banks, including the state owned National Bank of Pakistan, remained closed in solidarity with the protest. Most medical stores also suspended operations, except those located on Hospital Road, leaving markets unusually deserted.
Representatives of various trader bodies, business associations and civil society organizations urged the government to retain the constitutional and legal tax exemption granted to Malakand Division and immediately withdraw the proposed taxes.
They said the people of the region were already struggling with unemployment, rising inflation and economic hardship, warning that the imposition of new taxes would further worsen their financial situation.
The protesting traders warned that if the government failed to address their demands, the protest movement would be expanded across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, holding the authorities responsible for any consequences.
