In a significant move aimed at providing relief to the public, the government of Gilgit-Baltistan decided to suspend the enforcement of all fees and taxes introduced through the Finance Act 2023 in select departments.
This decision, announced by the Chief Minister’s office in a notification, will particularly affect the construction and fisheries sectors, with exemptions granted to the education and agriculture departments.
Meanwhile, the official statement from the Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Secretariat stressed the government’s commitment to easing the financial burden on the citizens and improving accessibility to essential services.
The suspension of the Finance Act 2023 will persist until final approval and new amendments are made by the Gilgit-Baltistan Cabinet and Assembly. During this period, government departments with concerns or reservations are encouraged to submit written reports to the Cabinet for review.
This development aligns with the demands outlined in the 15-point charter submitted by the ‘Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan,’ a joint platform of regional political and religious parties.
The second demand in the charter called for the abolition of the Finance Act, proposing that Gilgit-Baltistan’s domicile holders be exempted from taxes.
The government’s decision comes on the heels of recent protests and sit-ins organized by the Awami Action Committee, prompting a reconsideration of the initially proposed new price of wheat.
In response to the evolving situation, the Awami Action Committee has called for a meeting of the coordination committee to deliberate on the changing dynamics.
However, the huddle is expected to address various issues beyond the Finance Act, showcasing a broader commitment to addressing the concerns of the people.
