Islamabad, December 8, 2024: The Ministry of Law and Justice conducted a Qualifying Skills Test on Sunday to appoint members to the Appellate Tribunal of Inland Revenue (ATIR). The test aims to fill 20 critical vacancies in the tribunal, an essential body overseeing appeals related to Inland Revenue Service (IRS) decisions.
This initiative follows the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, emphasizing transparency, merit, and efficiency in the recruitment process. To ensure fairness and integrity, the Ministry collaborated with the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), which hosted the test at its Islamabad Examination Centre under secure conditions.
The recruitment drive began in June 2024, when the Ministry invited applications for these key positions. Out of approximately 300 applicants, a rigorous screening process led to the shortlisting of 262 candidates who were eligible to sit for the test.
The ATIR serves as a quasi-judicial forum that addresses appeals against decisions made by Regional Commissioners or Commissioners of the IRS. Its role is critical in ensuring just and efficient tax recovery, resolving disputes, and maintaining public trust in the tax system. Over the years, the tribunal has become increasingly vital for expediting the resolution of tax-related cases, many of which have been pending for extended periods.
The appointment of competent and qualified members to the ATIR is expected to bolster the tribunal’s capacity to handle the backlog of cases. This step aligns with the government’s broader efforts to enhance revenue collection, an essential factor for sustainable economic development.
By prioritizing merit-based recruitment, the Ministry aims to restore confidence in the system and ensure that tax-related disputes are resolved swiftly and impartially. The transparent execution of the test underscores the government’s commitment to improving governance in critical national institutions.
This recruitment initiative not only addresses the immediate need for qualified members in the ATIR but also sets a precedent for systematic and transparent hiring processes in other public institutions.