In a significant move aimed at combating tax evasion, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has launched a nationwide campaign to block SIM cards of non-filers. This proactive step is part of the government’s broader strategy to promote tax compliance.
Effective immediately, the SIM cards of all identified non-filers with taxable income will be blocked, and this measure will remain in place until May 15. The decision was communicated through an official notification from the FBR, instructing telecom companies to implement the block without delay.
The non-filers SIM block campaign targets 506,671 individuals who have failed to file their tax returns for the year 2023 and are not listed as active taxpayers. Restoring the mobile SIMs of these non-filers will require approval from the FBR or the relevant commissioner, making the process stringent.
Insiders suggest that this campaign is just the initial phase of the FBR’s comprehensive plan to address tax evasion. With data collected for over 2 million individuals, it is expected that more non-filers may face similar actions in subsequent phases.
It’s worth noting that the FBR’s authority extends beyond SIM blocking for non-filers. The board also has the power to disconnect electricity connections of non-filers, further strengthening enforcement measures to ensure widespread tax compliance.
