FBR suspends senior auditor over harassment complaints at feed mill

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has suspended a Senior Auditor (BS-17) from the Regional Tax Office, Multan, following complaints of harassment. The auditor was posted at a feed mill under Section 40B of the Sales Tax Act 1990 to monitor the supply of taxable goods, according to a news report. 

According to an official notification issued by the FBR, the suspension will last for 120 days or until further notice, in accordance with Rule 5(1) of the Civil Servants (Efficiency and Discipline) Rules, 2020.

Industry representatives praised the FBR for swift action. They acknowledged the FBR chairman’s commitment to addressing harassment complaints but also called for improvements in the working conditions of factory staff. 

They emphasised the need for logistical support and better facilities to ensure that such assignments, often lasting 30 days or more, do not burden compliant taxpayers.

Additionally, industry representatives suggested that where monitoring reveals no discrepancies and shows a consistent pattern of voluntary compliance, such inspections should be avoided for at least two years unless new information arises suggesting underreporting.