The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued a stern warning to inquiry officers, cautioning them of potential disciplinary action for prolonged delays in submitting inquiry reports.
In an official communication issued on Thursday, the FBR emphasized the urgent need for timely completion of pending inquiry reports and highlighted the consequences of failing to adhere to the stipulated deadlines.
According to the directive, all inquiry officers have been instructed to finalize pending inquiry reports within a maximum timeframe of 15 days. Failure to comply with this directive may result in disciplinary proceedings being initiated against the concerned officers.
The FBR expressed deep concern over the persistent delays in the submission of inquiry reports, particularly those related to inquiries and fact-finding processes. It noted that such delays not only reflect poorly on the efficiency of the board but also undermine the pursuit of justice. Additionally, the prolonged pendency of inquiries creates undue hardship for the accused officers, adversely affecting their professional reputation and various service-related aspects such as promotions, leaves, and deputations.
The issue of delayed inquiry proceedings has garnered significant attention, prompting intervention from external oversight bodies. The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) recently launched an Own Motion investigation into the matter, focusing on the backlog of disciplinary proceedings within the FBR. The FTO has directed the FBR to summon explanations from all inquiry officers, inquiry committee members, or authorized officers involved, and take appropriate action against those responsible for the inordinate delay in concluding inquiry proceedings.
In light of these developments, the FBR has underscored the utmost importance of expediting the resolution of pending inquiries and reaching decisions on outstanding cases. All concerned parties have been urged to prioritize these matters and ensure that pending inquiries are completed and submitted within the prescribed 15-day timeframe. Failure to meet this deadline due to negligence or dereliction of duties may result in disciplinary action being initiated against the responsible individuals.
The FBR’s directive reflects its commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and efficiency in its operations. By addressing the issue of delayed inquiry reports and taking decisive action against any lapses, the FBR aims to enhance its effectiveness in administering tax laws and promoting compliance among taxpayers.
Moving forward, it is expected that the implementation of these measures will contribute to streamlining the inquiry process, reducing backlog, and fostering greater confidence in the FBR’s ability to effectively discharge its responsibilities. Additionally, adherence to established timelines will help mitigate the adverse impact of delays on both the organization and the individuals involved, ensuring a fair and expeditious resolution of pending inquiries.