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JI will launch protest rallies against the exploitation of farmers by sugar mafia & govt starting Dec 25: Hafiz Naeemur Rehman

Lahore: Jamaat-e-Islami will launch protest rallies against the exploitation of farmers by the sugar mafia and the government starting December 25, announced JI Emir Engineer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman.Addressing a press conference at Mansoorah on Thursday, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman also declared plans for a "Million March" in solidarity with the people of Palestine, scheduled for December 29 in Islamabad.Hafiz Naeemur Rehman strongly criticized members of the Punjab Assembly for approving a substantial salary increase for themselves, calling it an insult to the people. "At a time when the common man is struggling to make ends meet, these so-called representatives have chosen to prioritize their financial gains over public welfare," he stated.He also expressed concern over the government's restrictions on internet services, labeling them a blow to freedom of speech and a hindrance to the employment opportunities of the youth in the digital age. He criticized the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Paki stan Peoples Party (PPP) for their failure to develop the IT sector or improve the education system despite decades in power.Highlighting the socio-economic disconnect, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman noted that over 80% of parliamentarians are billionaires who secured their positions through rigged elections and the backing of powerful institutions. "These individuals do not represent the people of Pakistan," he remarked.He said the ruling elite is depriving the nation of basic necessities and education while ensuring their own children received higher education abroad. Drawing attention to the alarming state of education in Pakistan, he revealed that approximately three million children are out of school, with over one million in Punjab alone.Hafiz Naeemur Rehman condemned the Punjab government's plans to privatize schools, vowing to challenge the initiative in court. "We strongly oppose the privatization of public schools and will take legal action to prevent it," he declared.He also criticized the United Sta tes for imposing sanctions on four Pakistani companies, urging the government to raise its voice against such actions.In response to a question, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman emphasized that the JI supports dialogue between the government and opposition parties. However, he pointed out that the current government lacks legitimacy as it came to power through electoral rigging. He called for discussions focusing on electoral reforms and the supremacy of the constitution and democracy.Hafiz Naeemur Rehman also addressed the issue of madaris registration, advocating for the continuation of dual registration methods-under the Societies Act and the framework agreed upon with madaris representatives in 2019. He expressed deep concern over the unrest in Kurram and Parachinar, urging both federal and provincial governments to fulfill their responsibility to establish peace in the region.