FBR’s Tax Strategy Sparks Outrage Among Salaried Class
Staff Report:
The Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) recent move to send threatening emails to salaried individuals, warning of SIM blocking and travel bans if tax returns are not filed, has sparked widespread backlash on social media. These individuals, whose taxes are already deducted at source, have expressed frustration over the unnecessary pressure imposed on compliant taxpayers.
Prominent media figure Omar Quraishi shared the story on LinkedIn, sarcastically applauding the FBR’s “brilliant” idea of sending threats to those already contributing their share of taxes.
Quraishi’s comments reflect the general sentiment that the approach is counterproductive, with many questioning why salaried employees are being targeted instead of broadening the tax base.
Abdul Hameed, a corporate social responsibility professional, criticized the policy, calling it misguided. He emphasized that instead of penalizing salaried individuals, the government should focus on sectors that evade taxes. He further highlighted the need for transparency and facilitation over fear-mongering tactics.
Other professionals weighed in, echoing similar concerns. Professor Farooq Azam Rathore harshly remarked that such policies are expected “when you have idiots at the helm of affairs.” Inam-Ur-Rehman from Roche Pakistan expressed dismay, saying it’s “unfair and unfortunate” that the salaried class is being threatened, rather than treated with dignity.
Not all responses were negative, however. Abdul Ghani Bharamchari, Senior Manager at EY, pointed out that individuals with additional sources of income may still be required to file tax returns. He noted that the FBR wouldn’t know if a person had mixed income until the return is filed, suggesting the message may be a general reminder rather than a threat.
Despite some defenses of the FBR’s reminder, the overall sentiment reflects disappointment in the state’s treatment of its taxpayers. Waqas Ali, a manager at Roche Diagnostics, described his disillusionment with the system, calling the email a “sad reflection” of governance. Similarly, Yasir Ghouri, CFO of Auvitronics Limited, stated that this incident demonstrates the low level of governance across the country.
The debate highlights a growing frustration with Pakistan’s tax collection strategies, particularly among the salaried class. Many believe the government’s efforts to increase tax revenues should focus on more equitable and strategic approaches, rather than alienating those already fulfilling their obligations.
