ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has opposed the blocking of over 500,000 mobile phone SIM cards of the tax non-filers.
In a letter addressed to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), the PTA said that such an action would not align with their operational framework.
Highlighting that many SIM cards are registered under men’s names but are commonly used by women, the PTA said that there are currently no restrictions on issuing new SIM cards to non-filers.
Moreover, the PTA raised concerns about the procedure for reinstating SIM cards for people who subsequently comply with tax obligations.
The authority clarified that while they are not legally obligated to block SIM cards, such a measure could adversely impact digitalization efforts and the telecommunications sector.
Instead of immediate SIM blocking, the PTA recommended that the FBR explore alternative options within the bounds of existing legal frameworks.
The PTA’s stance follows the issuance of an income tax general order by the Federal Board of Revenue on April 30, directing the authorities to block SIM cards associated with over 506,000 identified non-compliant taxpayers nationwide.
The FBR identified these individuals as eligible for filing income tax returns but not included in the FBR Active Tax Payer List.
An FBR spokesperson emphasized that despite eligibility, these individuals have failed to meet their tax obligations, prompting the initiation of enforcement measures. The FBR warned non-compliant taxpayers of potential SIM card blocking if they continue to evade tax filing requirements.
