The nationwide strike called by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has badly failed because religious organizations, civil society, and traders collectively opposed the strike, declaring it harmful for the public, the economy, and public peace.
Various trader leaders, religious scholars, and social figures issued statements condemning the road blockages, vandalism, and clashes by TLP, saying that this way of protest is neither Islamic nor ethical.
Trader leader Atif Akram Sheikh said that baseless objections to government policies and violent demonstrations only harm the public. According to him, business closures cause traders heavy financial losses.
The President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) also announced that the business community across the country will not participate in any strike, and all business activities will continue as usual.
Trader leader Umar Butt also confirmed that on Friday, markets across the country will remain open as usual. Religious figures Hafiz Amir Hamza, Maulana Abdul Manan, Muhammad Ramzan Pirzada, and Maulana Haq Nawaz also termed TLP’s strike inappropriate, saying that both the time and place of the protest are unsuitable.
According to Hafiz Amir Hamza, since peace has been restored in Gaza and Palestinians are celebrating, there remains no justification for TLP’s strike.
Maulana Abdul Manan warned that using force or fear to pressure the government is neither Islamic nor ethical.
Maulana Haq Nawaz claimed that India is trying to use certain elements to create unrest in Pakistan and appealed to the public not to become part of any foreign conspiracy.
Social leader Zia-ul-Haq Qasim Khan Baloch said that blocking roads and holding protest rallies in the name of religion is illegal and unethical, which causes severe problems for patients, travelers, and ordinary citizens.
All the leaders jointly demanded that TLP end the strike and protests on the roads so that public difficulties may be reduced. They said that TLP’s strike is not only against national interest but is also harming peace and stability in the country.
