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ISLAMABAD: In a significant move against tax evasion, telecom operators in Islamabad have blocked over 3,500 SIM cards and issued warning messages to about 5,500 individuals who are non-filers. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has ramped up its efforts by seeking detailed information on the blocked SIMs from telecom companies, indicating a robust crackdown on tax evaders.
Process to Block SIMs of Non-Filers Initiates:
Reliable sources reveal that the FBR has escalated its measures by sending a second batch of five thousand non-filers to telecom companies, with plans for a third batch soon. An automated system for verifying blocked SIMs is being developed to streamline the process, aiming to enhance efficiency and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
Read Also: Telecom Operators & FBR Agrees on Manual SIM Blocking for Tax Compliance
Recent discussions between FBR officials, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and telecom operators highlight the government’s commitment to enforcing Income Tax General Order No.1. This order, mandated under Section 114B of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001, requires the blocking of mobile phone SIMs belonging to non-filers for the tax year 2023.
Despite initial challenges in implementation, concerted efforts have been made to refine procedures and align with tax laws. Telecom operators have begun manually blocking SIMs in incremental batches, with plans underway for the development of an automated verification system to expedite the process.
FBR Provides Details of 5,000 Non-Filers to Telecom Operators for Blocking SIMs:
Authorities have issued a stern warning, stating that legal action will be taken against companies failing to cooperate in enforcing the Income Tax General Order. These developments mark a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to curb tax evasion and promote fiscal transparency.