FBR orders officials to stop ‘ugly tactics’

MULTAN: Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Dr Muhammad Irshad on Friday ordered Regional Tax Officers to halt the issuance of notices to the ginning industry with immediate effect.

The announcement comes after complaints from the industry’s representatives who alleged that they were facing harassment from FBR officials who used “ugly tactics” and froze their bank accounts.

The FBR chairman took notice of these grievances and said that the industry would receive some concessions and facilities. “We will facilitate the ginning industry in the upcoming budget and all disputed matter will be removed through legislation in the National Assembly,” he said.

Earlier, a delegation from Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) met with Irshad to discuss these issues. Headed by PCGA Chairman Dr Jeso Mal, the group said that the FBR should cease its policy of intimidation.

“Issuances of notices, freezing of bank accounts and unjust deductions have disturbed us as it is affecting the atmosphere of the business,” said Mal. “Serving notices on five- and ten-year old audits at a time when businesses are facing a number of external and internal pressures is nothing more than harassment and intimidation. The FBR should stop its officials from using such ugly tactics.”

On the other hand, the FBR chairman assured the industry’s representatives that their reservations and fears would be removed.

The PCGA delegation called on a number of National Assembly and Senate members to submit their proposals and recommendations on legislation about the ginning industry.

Source: Dawn