Islamabad, September 5, 2024 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has imposed the penalty of dismissal from service upon Fayzan Atif, a Customs Inspector (BS-16) from the Collectorate of Customs (Enforcement), Sargodha. The dismissal stems from a charge of “misconduct” under the Civil Servants (Efficiency & Discipline) Rules, 2020.
According to an FBR statement, disciplinary proceedings were initiated after Atif failed to report for duty following his transfer in October 2023. Despite submitting multiple requests for medical leave, the Collectorate did not approve his absence. He was instructed to report for a medical evaluation, which he failed to do, leading to his unauthorized absence. The matter escalated when Atif continued to disregard official orders and remained absent even after being issued an explanation memo and a charge sheet.
An inquiry into the matter was conducted by Ms. Farah Farooq, a PCS officer (BS-19), who initially recommended a minor penalty of “censure.” However, following a thorough review of the case, including an online personal hearing on August 20, 2024, the FBR determined that the gravity of Atif’s misconduct warranted a stricter penalty. Atif, during his hearing, failed to provide any substantial evidence to support his claims of innocence.
The FBR’s decision to impose the major penalty of dismissal was based on Atif’s continued defiance of official orders, refusal to attend his duties, and failure to cooperate with the disciplinary process. The inquiry revealed that despite being instructed to appear before a Civil Surgeon to validate his medical leave, Atif did not comply, further undermining his defense.
The final ruling, issued by the Member (Admn/HR) of the FBR, overruled the inquiry officer’s recommendation, determining that Atif’s actions constituted a clear breach of conduct. The dismissal marks a significant enforcement of discipline within the customs department, sending a strong message against misconduct.
Atif’s dismissal underscores the FBR’s commitment to maintaining a disciplined workforce and upholding the rules governing civil servants in Pakistan.
The ruling comes amid efforts by the FBR to ensure adherence to standards across its departments, particularly in key enforcement areas such as customs operations.
