Islamabad, Pakistan: The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has launched an investigation into the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for burdening taxpayers with heavy costs through the implementation of SRO 428, which requires businesses to integrate with the FBR’s e-computerized system.
The FTO has issued a notice to the Secretary Revenue Division and Chief CIR, demanding an explanation for the alleged violation of taxpayer privacy and the imposition of excessive costs on businesses. Business Recorder
The FTO has raised concerns about the FBR’s use of a private limited company for the online integration process and the potential for conflicts of interest. The FTO has also highlighted the lack of transparency and documentation regarding the implementation of SRO 428.
The FTO has threatened to initiate criminal proceedings against FBR officials if they are found to have violated Section 216 of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, which relates to the privacy of taxpayer data.
The FBR is now under pressure to provide justification for its actions and address the concerns raised by the FTO. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the implementation of SRO 428 and the relationship between the FBR and taxpayers.
