KARACHI: Traders' community is observing countrywide strike against imposition of taxes and hefty electricity and gas bills.

President All Pakistan Traders' Association, Ajmal Baloch said no talks are being held with government and they are observing strike across Pakistan. Markets from Karachi to Khyber are closed on call of traders' body. Earlier, Central President of the Anjuman-e-Tajiran, Kashif Chaudhry, termed government's negotiations 'drama' and vowed to observe strike. Kashif Chaudhry said that traders are united, demanding reduction in electricity prices and review of IPP agreements. He said that economic system needs to be corrected, terming strike step in that direction. Federal Board of Revenue Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial assured traders to accept their ­'legitimate' demands but said that Tajir Dost Scheme would not be withdrawn. In virtual meeting with traders from Karachi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, and Peshawar, Rashid Mahmood Langrial said that all 'legitimate' demands of traders will be met. FBR chairman however, made it clear that Tajir Dost Scheme will not be rolled back.