ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has voiced its opposition to the proposed blocking of SIM cards belonging to over 500,000 tax non-filers, as per ARY News.
In a letter addressed to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), PTA expressed concerns that such an action would not align with their operational framework. The authority highlighted that a significant number of mobile SIMs registered under men’s names are frequently used by women. PTA emphasized that while there are no restrictions on issuing new SIMs to non-filers, they questioned the process for reinstating SIM cards for individuals who subsequently become tax compliant.
PTA asserted that they are not legally obliged to block SIM cards and cautioned that such a measure could impede digitalization efforts and negatively impact the telecom economy. Instead, PTA urged FBR to explore alternative options within the bounds of the law.
PTA’s response follows the issuance of an income tax general order by FBR on April 30, directing authorities to block SIM cards of more than 506,000 identified non-compliant taxpayers nationwide.
According to FBR, these individuals, despite being eligible to file income tax returns, are not listed in the FBR Active Tax Payer List, indicating non-compliance with tax obligations. The FBR has initiated action against these non-compliant taxpayers, warning that their SIM cards may be blocked if they fail to fulfill their tax obligations.
