FBR to Block SIM Cards of 2 Million Tax Evaders in IMF-driven Crackdown

In compliance with directives from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in Islamabad has announced its intention to block the SIM cards of nearly 2 million individuals implicated in tax evasion.

The decision, sanctioned by the FBR chairman, empowers officials to take robust action against tax evaders, including the possibility of disconnecting electricity connections and blocking SIM cards. With over 1.8 million tax evaders identified, 145 district tax officers have been granted special authority to enforce penalties under Section 114-B. Despite prior warnings issued by the FBR, a significant number of individuals failed to file returns, prompting the implementation of these stringent measures to enhance tax compliance nationwide. However, previous attempts at a crackdown were delayed due to legal considerations, including concerns over the completion of Income Tax General Orders and potential legal challenges. The IMF's initiative aims to bolster tax adherence in Pakistan, emphasizing stricter measures against non-filers to strengthen government revenue streams.