Jamaat-e-Islami chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has warned of fresh protests if the government fails to abolish the petroleum levy.

Speaking at a press conference at Idara Noor-e-Haq, he said his party’s campaign would continue until the public received relief. He urged the government to withdraw the levy.

Hafiz Naeem Raises Petroleum Levy Issue with Ishaq Dar

Hafiz Naeem said he had discussed the issue with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. He urged Dar to abolish the petroleum levy.

According to the JI chief, the government collects Rs150 billion every month through the levy. He added that Dar had promised to share relevant figures within one or two days.

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Naeem said Dar had argued that removing the levy would also benefit owners of larger vehicles. In response, the JI chief proposed raising the levy on expensive vehicles from Rs100 to Rs200.

He suggested using this approach to provide relief to middle- and lower-income groups.

JI Chief Says Petroleum Levy Remains Key Demand

Hafiz Naeem also said he had met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. According to him, the prime minister sought more time to consider additional relief measures.

However, Naeem reiterated that abolishing the petroleum levy remained his party’s main demand. He warned that Jamaat-e-Islami would return to the streets if the government failed to act.

Hafiz Naeem Criticises Federal and Sindh Governments

The JI chief also criticised the federal and provincial governments. He alleged that they had come to power through Form 47.

Furthermore, he blamed corruption for worsening conditions in Sindh, particularly in Karachi.