ANP rejects federal tax move in merged districts, Malakand division

The provincial president of Awami National Party (ANP) Mian Iftikhar Hussain has strongly condemned the federal government’s decision to impose taxes on the merged districts and Malakand division, calling the move unconstitutional and anti-people.
In a statement, Mian Iftikhar said the promises made under the 25th Constitutional Amendment to the people of the merged tribal areas have yet to be fulfilled.
“Basic facilities like health, education, and employment have not been provided. So where is the justice in taxing a region that still lacks fundamental services?” he questioned.
The ANP leader reiterated his party’s longstanding position that the merged districts must be declared tax-free zones for at least ten years to allow them to reach parity with developed areas.
“It is regrettable that these areas are only remembered during elections or conflict, while their people are continuously denied their constitutional rights,” he added.
Mian Iftikhar said, “ANP categorically rejects any such move. The agreement made between the state and the people of Malakand must be honored in both letter and spirit.”
He warned that if the federal government proceeds with these measures, the ANP will launch strong protests alongside the people at all levels. “We will not remain silent while the rights of our people are violated,” he asserted.