FBR to block sims of 500,000 non-filers after Eidul Fitr: report

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has decided to block the SIM cards of 500,000 individuals who have neglected to file their tax returns, a report said.

As per a recent news report, the FBR intends to issue a general tax order following Eid-ul-Fitr, announcing the impending blocking of SIM cards for individuals who are obligated to pay taxes but have not fulfilled their filing requirements. This action is slated to be completed by the end of April.

After consultations with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, the FBR has compiled a list of nearly 400,000 individuals.

While the revenue collector initially aimed to block up to 2 million SIM cards, telecom companies opposed the proposal, citing the difficulty of such a massive undertaking.

This move by the FBR serves as a warning signal, indicating its serious intent to enforce tax compliance. Individuals who are likely to be affected by this measure were previously served notices after failing to file their tax returns, but they remained non-compliant.

It's noteworthy that the FBR possesses the authority not only to block SIM cards but also to disconnect gas and electricity connections as part of its enforcement measures.