Advertisement
News

FBR to Block 500,000 SIMs of Non-Filers and Under-Filers

Advertisement

As the government intensifies efforts to address economic challenges amidst a financial crunch, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) plans to block 500,000 SIMs belonging to non-filers and under-filers, according to sources.

Following an Income Tax General Order (IGTO) to be issued after Eid-ul-Fitr, the FBR will execute the blocking, already making necessary arrangements. This move aligns with the agency’s aim to broaden the tax net, as granted additional powers last year under Section 114B of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001.

Consultations with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have been held to identify 400,000 SIMs of under-filers and 100,000 SIMs of non-filers. The action aims to curb alleged tax evasion, with SIM blocking expected by April 2024.

Read also: FBR and Karandaaz Collaborate for Tax System Digitization

Despite identifying two million potential tax evaders, only 0.5 million SIMs will be blocked initially due to telecom companies’ feasibility concerns. The move follows a decline in income tax returns from 5.9 million in tax year 2022 to 4.2 million in tax year 2023.

Additionally, the government initiated the Tajir Dost Scheme to register traders, targeting wholesalers, dealers, and retailers, among others, to expand the tax base. Traders failing to register by the April 30 deadline will face penalties under section 182 of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001.

Advertisement
Zubair Yaqoob

Zubair Yaqoob is a senior anchor, and an investigative journalist with an impressive 37 years of experience. Zubair's journalistic journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of truth and a commitment to delivering impactful stories. Zubair's expertise extends beyond borders, reaching as far as Malaysia, where he has left an indelible mark on the international journalism landscape. His global perspective and keen analytical skills have allowed him to navigate diverse cultural landscapes, bringing a unique and enriching perspective to his reporting. Whether he's in the studio or on the field, Zubair continues to be a driving force in the world of journalism, bridging gaps, fostering understanding, and unraveling the stories that matter most. As the Headline PK Author, Zubair remains at the forefront of news, guiding audiences through the complexities of our ever-evolving world.

Recent Posts

WhatsApp Services Disrupted in Pakistan Ahead of PTI Protests

Global internet monitoring group NetBlocks has confirmed that WhatsApp services in Pakistan are facing disruptions…

14 hours ago

Participation in PTI Protests Will Lead to Arrests, Warns Minister

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has warned of strict measures against participants in Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)…

1 day ago

Lahore’s Services International Hotel Sold for Rs1.951 Billion

The government has finalized the long-delayed sale of Lahore's Services International Hotel (SIH) for Rs1.951…

1 day ago

Pakistani Diaspora in UAE Celebrates 200,000 Members

H.E. Hussain Muhammad, Pakistan's Consul General, joined as the Chief Guest at the "PID Business…

1 day ago

Chinese Century Steel Group Threatens to Withdraw Investment From Pakistan

Century Steel Group, a key Chinese investor in Pakistan, has issued a stern ultimatum to…

1 day ago

Govt to Shut Down Internet Services Tonight in Light of PTI Protest

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) plans to suspend internet services in Islamabad and Lahore, Rawalpindi,…

1 day ago