PTCL is closely reviewing the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) recent directive to block approximately 500,000 SIM connections linked to tax non-filers’ national identity cards.
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This matter is of utmost importance to us, and we are reviewing the directive within the framework of the relevant legal and regulatory framework,” said a PTCL spokesperson. “Our priority is to ensure compliance with the relevant legal provisions while protecting the interests of our customers.
PTCL is in close contact with the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) to effectively and responsibly address this issue.
Background: The FBR issued a directive to PTA and telecom operators to block the SIMs of tax non-filers who have not filed their income tax returns for the tax year 2023. This directive is part of the government’s efforts to increase tax collection and widen the tax net.
Impact: The FBR’s directive is expected to have a significant impact on tax non-filers, who will no longer be able to use their SIM cards to make calls, send text messages, or access the internet. It is also likely to have an impact on telecom operators, who may face a decrease in revenue.
PTCL’s Response: PTCL is committed to complying with the FBR’s directive while also protecting the interests of its customers. The company is reviewing the directive carefully and will work with the PTA to develop a plan for implementing it in a way that minimizes disruption to customers.
Conclusion: The FBR’s directive to block the SIMs of tax non-filers is a significant development that is likely to have a major impact on both tax non-filers and telecom operators. PTCL is committed to working with the PTA to ensure that the directive is implemented in a way that is fair and equitable to all stakeholders.
