On Wednesday, FBR Chairman Dr Muhammad Irshad engagements began with the Board-in-Council meeting to discuss tax policy issues and a review of the earlier decisions of the council. Subsequently the FBR chairman participated in a meeting of Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) followed by a presentation of the Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation Inland Revenue (IR) on its budget proposals. The agency gave a detailed presentation on the legal and procedural changes in tax laws to enhance the powers of the directorate for effective action against tax evaders.
Collectors of Customs held a meeting with the FBR chairman to discuss the measures for improving collection of sales tax and withholding tax at import stage followed by a meeting to review the update on FBR Foundation to be constituted for the FBR employees. Sikandar Hayat Khan Bosan, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research held a meeting at the FBR House to discuss the overall performance of the agriculture sector and proposals to grant concessions to the sector.
Sources said that the FBR chairman had planned to visit Karachi on Thursday (April 20) to meet heads of Large Taxpayer Units (LTUs) and Regional Tax Offices (RTOs) of Karachi. However, due to heavy engagements on Thursday, the FBR Chairman may not visit Karachi.
There appeared to be no visible concern in the FBR with respect to the possibility of a verdict in the Panama case that may challenge its operational effectiveness seeking a review and change within a stipulated time and/or appointment of senior officials, including the chairman.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2017