Following PTA’s rejection, FBR will convene with mobile operators to proceed with blocking SIMs of 506,671 non-filers by May 15, 2024.
A senior FBR official informed ProPakistani that PTA’s refusal holds no legal weight. Cellular companies will proceed with blocking SIMs as instructed by FBR. An emergency meeting will be called with telecom operators, mandating compliance with the deadline or facing legal repercussions. The FBR’s stance remains unaffected by PTA’s rejection, with no legal implications on the tax machinery.
The FBR issued Income Tax General Order No. 01 of 2024 to enforce tax return filing for those not on the active taxpayers list but liable under the Income Tax Ordinance 2001. PTA opposes SIM blocking, citing incompatibility with their system and potential harm to digitalization and the telecom economy. PTA warns of risks to foreign investment, banking, e-commerce, and mobile account users. Non-filers can verify their status online. SIMs of specified individuals remain blocked until restored by FBR or the Commissioner of Inland Revenue. PTA and telecom operators must comply immediately, with a report due to FBR by May 15, 2024.
