FBR Blocks 11,252 SIMs of Non-Filers
ISLAMABAD, May 24, 2024: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has blocked 11,252 SIMs of non-filers as of May 22, 2024, and has announced that the process will continue. This action is part of the FBR’s ongoing efforts to enhance revenue collection and ensure compliance with tax laws.
Background of the SIM Blocking Initiative
The FBR and cellular mobile operators (CMOs) initially faced some resistance from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). However, the PTA later chose to remain neutral on the issue.
The FBR spokesperson clarified that the SIM blocking process is ongoing and that the number of blocked SIMs will continue to increase.
Inauguration of New Regional Tax Office Building
In a separate development, FBR Chairman Malik Amjed Zubair inaugurated the new Regional Tax Office building in Islamabad. The facility is equipped with modern technology to improve taxpayer facilitation and streamline tax collection.
Chairman Zubair emphasized the importance of integrity and professional commitment among FBR officers. He also acknowledged the contributions of the project teams and stakeholders.
Additional Developments
- Two Police Officials Transferred: Yasir Afridi, previously serving in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has been transferred.
- SIFC Meeting Convened: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will chair a meeting of the Security and Foreign Investment Committee (SIFC) today, attended by top officials.
- Pakistani Scholar Appointed as Director: The Folger Shakespeare Library has named a Pakistani female scholar as its new director.
- KP CM Confirms SIFC Attendance: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan confirmed his attendance at the SIFC meeting.
- Communication Projects in KP: The Law Minister informed the Senate about ongoing communication projects worth billions of rupees in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- Students Return from Bishkek: The Foreign Office stated that 4,500 Pakistani students have returned from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.