The federal government and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) have agreed to form committees to review the petroleum levy and explore ways to provide relief to the public.
The development came as JI continued its nationwide protest against high fuel prices, the petroleum levy, inflation, and expensive electricity. The party had been demanding the withdrawal of the levy and had announced a nationwide shutter-down strike for September 3.
On Thursday, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah, and JI Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announced the formation of expert committees. The government will consider JI’s proposals related to the petroleum levy, while the party will also form its own team of experts.
JI had earlier agreed to talks with the government but wanted a complete relief package instead of only a briefing. The latest agreement gives the party a formal opportunity to present its proposals for reducing the burden of fuel prices on consumers.
Formal talks are expected to continue after the committees review possible measures.
