PTA Rejects FBR’s Request to Block SIM Cards of Non-Tax Filers

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has rebuffed a request from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to block the SIM cards of over 500,000 individuals who have not filed their tax returns.

In a firm response, the PTA asserted that such an order would lack legal binding and run counter to established legal protocols.

The disagreement emerged when the FBR sought collaboration from the PTA to block SIM cards of non-compliant taxpayers. However, the PTA, citing legal constraints, rejected the proposal, highlighting its inconsistency with the country’s telecommunications legal framework.

Sources familiar with the matter disclosed that the PTA underscored the incongruence of blocking SIM cards based on tax filing status with existing laws and regulations. Instead, the authority suggested exploring alternative measures, such as legal recourse against non-filers, to address the issue.

Previously, the PTA had indicated its contemplation of the FBR’s decision regarding the ban on mobile phone SIMs for non-tax filers.

An FBR spokesperson confirmed ongoing discussions with mobile phone operators and relevant stakeholders on the matter. They reiterated the FBR’s commitment to taking action within the regulatory framework and in adherence to pertinent legal provisions.