Islamabad, November 15, 2023 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has undertaken the thorough verification of documents submitted by officers in the BS-16 grade of the Pakistan Customs Department.
This verification process is specifically aimed at scrutinizing the particulars of customs officers who were appointed based on the recommendations of the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC).
In an official communication released today, the FBR disclosed that the verification process involves officers who have been appointed or posted in the BS-16 grade since 2017, following recommendations from the FPSC. The list of officers under scrutiny includes various roles such as appraising/valuation officer, preventive officer, deputy assistant chemical examiner, assistant private secretary, and MIS officer.
The FBR emphasized that, despite the mandatory requirement, only a limited number of Collectorates/Directorates have submitted the necessary information. This has raised concerns within the FBR about the potential oversight by several Collectorates/Directorates, which, as per the FBR, have not taken the required steps in this regard.
The verification of character and antecedents is a crucial step outlined in the prescribed rules, as per the relevant rules contained in Estacode. The FBR highlighted that this step is essential to ensure the integrity and reliability of individuals appointed to key positions within the Customs Department.
According to the revised procedure, all Federal Government Ministries, Divisions, and Departments, including the Federal Public Service Commission, are obligated to make simultaneous references for security clearance of fresh employees to various agencies. These agencies include the Intelligence Bureau of the Government of Pakistan, the District Police, and the Special Branch of the Provincial Police concerned.
In light of the observed lapses in adherence to the prescribed rules, the FBR has issued a stern directive to all concerned Heads of field formations. They are urged to implement the standing instructions promptly to avoid any potential embarrassing situations in the future. The responsibility for non-adherence to government instructions, both in letter and spirit, will squarely rest upon the concerned Heads of field formations. Additionally, the directive underscores the risks associated with the non-verification of character and antecedents/security clearance.
This move by the FBR is seen as a proactive measure to strengthen the organizational structure and enhance the credibility of the Customs Department. The verification process is expected to bring transparency and accountability to the forefront, ensuring that officers in key positions meet the necessary criteria and maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in their roles. The FBR has urged full cooperation from all relevant stakeholders to facilitate a smooth and efficient verification process.
