Over 3,400 SIMs blocked so far amid crackdown on non-filers

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has intensified its drive against tax evaders, blocking over 3,400 mobile SIMs of non-filers so far, with many more to follow.

According to FBR officials, the list of non-filers has been shared with telecom companies, and the process of blocking SIMs will continue gradually. The FBR has identified 56,671 individuals who have not filed their tax returns, and their mobile SIMs will be blocked in small groups.

The Income Tax General Order 2024 has already been issued, empowering the FBR to take this measure. The move is aimed at encouraging tax compliance and widening the tax net.

The FBR has warned that those who fail to file their tax returns will face not only SIM blocking but also other consequences, including fines and penalties.

The tax authority is using data analytics and other tools to identify tax evaders and bring them into the tax net. The drive against non-filers is part of the government's efforts to increase tax revenue and reduce the budget deficit.