ISLAMABAD: In a significant move during the National Assembly’s budget debate, MQM-Pakistan leader Aminul Haque has called for substantial fiscal reforms, including the elimination of taxes for the salaried class earning up to Rs 12 lakh annually.
This proposal comes as part of a broader discussion on reshaping financial policies in response to regional economic challenges.
During his speech, Haque critiqued the budget’s heavy emphasis on servicing loans and highlighted the importance of reallocating resources to vital sectors. He commended the government’s Rs2,100 billion defense allocation, recognizing the essential role of Pakistan’s armed forces in maintaining national security.
Additionally, Haque pushed for raising Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) compensation to Rs12,000 and advocated for the removal of the 10% General Sales Tax (GST) on newsprint. This, he argued, is crucial to support the declining media industry and address the growing unemployment among journalists.
The MQM-Pakistan leader also suggested legislative amendments, including changes to the PECA Act, urging consultations with key stakeholders such as the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), and Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) to ensure balanced reforms.
Moreover, Haque proposed new taxation measures on agricultural profits and wheat sales to expand the tax base and enhance revenue, sparking significant discussions and interest across political spectra.
