Mohsin Siddiqui (Chief Reporter)
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has taken decisive action against delays in tax cases by suspending the Chief Commissioner-Inland Revenue (IR), Large Taxpayers Office Islamabad. This suspension comes as a response to deliberate delays in pending cases in higher courts, as observed by the Prime Minister. The Chief Commissioner, Yousif Hyder Shaikh, has been placed under suspension for a period of 120 days, effective immediately, as per a notification issued by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) under Rule 5(1) of Civil Servants (Efficiency & Discipline) Rules, 2020.
Earlier, on April 22, the Chief Commissioner-Inland Revenue was reassigned as the Director General (Special Initiatives) in Karachi. However, following serious concerns over the deliberate delays in pending cases, the Prime Minister directed the FBR to take action against relevant officials involved.
In addition to the suspension, the Prime Minister has initiated inquiries against all relevant officials implicated in the delays. He has also mandated immediate reforms within the Federal Board of Revenue and personally committed to overseeing the process.
The backlog of tax-related cases in higher courts, amounting to billions of rupees, has prompted the Prime Minister to call for swift action. He has urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan to prioritize the disposal of such cases to safeguard the national exchequer.
Recent scrutiny of a pending case revealed a request for adjournment by an FBR counsel, prompting further investigation by relevant authorities. The Prime Minister has reiterated his stance against any negligence in handling legal matters concerning tax reforms, emphasizing his dedication to monitoring the process diligently.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to expedite tax-related litigation through legislative measures. The drafting of the Tax Laws (First) Amendment Bill 2024 aims to abolish the post of Commissioner Inland Revenue (Appeals) to facilitate the early disposal of pending cases and reduce litigations in courts, estimated at Rs 2.3 trillion.
Despite these measures, questions remain regarding the responsibility for seeking adjournments and the decision-making process behind the suspensions. The ongoing developments underscore the government’s commitment to streamlining tax processes and ensuring fiscal accountability.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s proactive stance against tax case delays reflects a broader commitment to fiscal transparency and efficiency within Pakistan’s revenue system.
