Mohsin Siddiqui (Chief Reporter)

In its proactive approach, FBR has significantly expanded its focus to address the pervasive issue of non-filing among senior bureaucrats. This broadened scope now includes various government departments. Furthermore, it covers financial institutions, public sector entities, regulatory bodies, and senior management roles in private institutions across Pakistan. The identification of numerous senior government officials who were non-filers cut across ministries, departments, and even the police force.

Consequently, FBR has responded with intensified scrutiny, specifically targeting senior executives within financial institutions. This scrutiny ensures strict compliance with income tax return filing standards, especially within the banking sector. This marks a strategic move by FBR to bolster tax compliance in high-ranking positions across diverse sectors.

In a decisive stance, FBR is set to take substantial actions against non-filing senior officials in various government organizations. Urging top officials, FBR stresses prompt income tax returns to strengthen compliance.

Enforcement began with an in-house exercise at FBR’s field formations, precisely targeting tax machinery. The next phase expands scrutiny, ensuring rigorous review by senior officials in ministries, divisions, and government institutions.

After the December 6, 2023 deadline, tax officers (BS-17 and above) must submit e-filing certificates. Despite compliance from many, FBR redirects focus to senior officials in different departments who missed the October 31, 2023, deadline.

This stringent approach underscores FBR’s unwavering commitment to enhance tax compliance, holding individuals across government and financial sectors accountable. It signifies a strategic move to foster responsibility and adherence among high-ranking officials for a transparent fiscal system in Pakistan.