The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO), Dr. Asif Jah, has directed an investigation into Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) officers for submitting false and misleading statements regarding the implementation of an FTO order on coercive measures, such as bank account attachments, during the pendency of appeals.
According to news reports, the FTO’s ruling has been upheld by the President, who has also recommended disciplinary action against the officers involved, provided they are given an opportunity for a hearing.
The case was filed by taxpayer Dr Iqbal Aujla, represented by Advocate Waheed Shahbaz Butt, who alleged maladministration and unlawful recovery actions by FBR officials.
The FTO found that the officers’ actions violated FBR’s internal circulars and constituted administrative excess.
Advocate Butt emphasized that the FBR’s conduct represented maladministration, undermining the principles of fairness and justice required of public functionaries. He added that adherence to constitutional mandates is essential for public servants, including FBR officers.
The FTO recommended that the FBR instruct the Chief Commissioner Inland Revenue (CCIR) to reprimand the concerned officer for taking coercive measures during the pendency of appeals.
Additionally, the FTO called on the Member-IR (Operations) to review similar cases nationwide to ensure compliance with FBR directives, take corrective actions where needed, and issue warnings to officers found violating the guidelines.
