Karachi, January 6, 2025 – The Sindh High Court (SHC) has instructed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to provide detailed information regarding tax officials implicated in cases initiated by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). This directive highlights the need for transparency and accountability within the FBR.
The SHC has specifically asked the FBR to furnish comprehensive details of officers currently facing NAB cases in NAB courts. Additionally, the court has inquired whether any conviction orders have been issued against these officers and, if so, what actions the FBR and its field formations have taken in response to such convictions.
This directive stems from a case in which a tax officer, despite being convicted by a NAB court, continued to enjoy official perks and maintain their position. The SHC expressed concern over the apparent lack of communication between the FBR and NAB authorities, which allowed the convicted individual to benefit from their role unlawfully. The court noted, “This evident lack of communication between the FBR and NAB authorities has resulted in a situation where the appellant continued to enjoy perks and position despite their conviction. This raises concerns that other FBR employees in similar cases may also have been reinstated to their previous positions.”
To address these concerns, the SHC has ordered the FBR to take immediate action. In compliance with the court’s directive, the FBR has issued instructions to its field offices, requiring them to compile and submit detailed reports on such cases by January 10, 2025. These reports must include information on actions taken against convicted officers and any measures implemented to prevent similar situations in the future.
The case underscores the critical need for improved coordination between the FBR and NAB to ensure accountability and prevent convicted individuals from exploiting systemic gaps. As the FBR works to comply with the SHC’s order, it remains to be seen whether this effort will lead to meaningful reforms in addressing corruption and misconduct among tax officials. The outcome will also serve as a test of the FBR’s commitment to maintaining integrity and transparency within its ranks.