FBR has restored mobile SIMs for over 103,000 individuals who have fulfilled their tax obligations. This development comes as part of the tax authority’s ongoing efforts to expand the tax net and improve revenue collection.
Earlier this year, FBR had initiated a controversial measure to block SIMs of individuals who had not filed their income tax returns. The decision was met with resistance from telecom operators, who expressed concerns about the feasibility and impact of the measure. However, after several rounds of discussions, a joint working group comprising representatives from FBR and telecom industry was established to streamline the process.
FBR had initially identified a list of 506,671 non-filers whose SIMs were to be blocked. The gradual implementation of the SIM blocking measure, carried out in phases, aimed to minimize disruptions to the public.
While FBR’s actions have drawn mixed reactions, the tax authority maintains that the measure is crucial for ensuring fair taxation and improving government revenue. By linking SIM card ownership to tax compliance, FBR aims to deter tax evasion and encourage a larger segment of the population to contribute to the national exchequer.
