The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in Pakistan is set to implement stringent measures against non-filers as the final date for blocking mobile SIM cards and disconnecting electricity and gas connections arrives. Afaq Qureshi, the spokesperson for FBR, revealed that the Income Tax General Order outlining these measures is expected to be issued in the second or third week of January.
Underlining the FBR’s commitment to cracking down on non-filers, Qureshi highlighted the agency’s decision to block mobile SIM cards of non-filers, emphasizing the importance of complying with tax obligations. The spokesperson noted that the order’s issuance is contingent upon the completion of legal proceedings and the issuance of notices to defaulters.
December 28 and 29, 2022, marked the last date for non-filers to respond to notices issued by the FBR. Qureshi stated that a general order, containing the names of non-filers, will be issued, adhering to legal requirements, after which electricity and gas connections of defaulters will be disconnected.
Responding to queries about blocking national identity cards or passports of tax defaulters, Qureshi clarified that such provisions are not present in the law. However, Section 114B of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001 empowers the FBR to disconnect utility connections and block mobile SIMs in case of non-filing of tax returns in response to issued notices.
In a statement issued on December 31, 2022, the FBR reported collecting over one trillion rupees in revenue for December, successfully achieving targets for the first half of the current financial year. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar expressed confidence in the FBR’s reform agenda, affirming the government’s commitment to enhancing the institution’s efficiency.
Acknowledging the need for broader tax reforms, the Finance Minister received approval to bring about changes in response to proposals presented. Two months ago, the FBR approved the creation of 145 district tax officers, aiming to bring 1.5 to 2 million new taxpayers into the tax net by June this year. The move underscores the government’s dedication to expanding the tax base and ensuring financial sustainability.
