Jewelers in Peshawar’s Saddar Bazaar observed a complete shutter-down strike on Thursday in protest against raids and enforcement actions carried out by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
Traders closed their shops and business centers and set up a protest camp on Saddar Road, demanding an end to what they called harassment of the business community.
Speaking to protesters, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Jewelers Association President Amin Hussain said jewelers were willing to pay taxes and remained among the highest tax-contributing trader groups in the country. However, he argued that raids and surprise inspections were not an appropriate way to engage with businesses.
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The association criticized the alleged enforcement actions and called for a more consultative approach between tax authorities and traders. Protesters maintained that unnecessary searches and raids were creating uncertainty within the market.
Amin Hussain warned that if the alleged raids and inspections continue, jewelers could expand their protest across the province. He said the business community would not accept what it considers unjustified searches and enforcement measures.
The protest disrupted normal commercial activity in one of Peshawar’s major trading areas, with markets remaining closed during the strike.