The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued a directive, barring field formations from assigning unauthorized additional charges to officers.
The move comes as the FBR expresses concern over instances where controlling officers in field formations have been assigning additional charges to their subordinate officers in violation of previous instructions from the board.
In a letter circulated on Monday, the FBR emphasized that the authority to assign current or additional charge for posts in BPS-17 to BPS-20 lies with the Head of the Department, namely the Secretary, Revenue Division. For posts in BPS-21 to BPS-22, the authority is vested in the Prime Minister of Pakistan.
The FBR urged all field formations to adhere strictly to these guidelines, ensuring that no additional charge is assigned to any officer without the explicit approval of the competent authority, as outlined by the Government of Pakistan. The directive aims to streamline the process of assigning additional charges and prevent deviations from established protocols.
Effective immediately, the FBR emphasized that any future claims for additional charge allowance will not be entertained if the assignment is made irregularly. Furthermore, the letter warned that strict disciplinary action, as per the Efficiency and Discipline Rules of 2020, will be initiated against officers found granting or assigning additional charge in violation of the specified instructions.
The FBR’s directive underscores the importance of maintaining adherence to established protocols and guidelines, particularly in matters related to administrative responsibilities and hierarchical authority. By reiterating the proper channels for assigning additional charges, the FBR aims to foster transparency and accountability within its field formations.
In addition to the administrative implications, the letter also highlighted the potential legal ramifications of assigning unauthorized additional charges. Officers were advised to consider the legal consequences of such actions, emphasizing the need for compliance with the prescribed procedures to avoid disciplinary measures and uphold the integrity of the organization.
This directive from the FBR reflects the board’s commitment to reinforcing governance and ensuring that administrative processes are conducted in accordance with established rules and regulations. It also serves as a reminder to officers within the FBR to act within the defined frameworks and seek proper approvals for any assignments of additional charge, contributing to a more structured and accountable working environment.
