ISLAMABAD: The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has commended a senior Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) official for his swift intervention in resolving a taxpayer’s long-pending sales tax grievance, leading to the withdrawal of a proposed recommendation seeking his explanation.
According to an order issued by the FTO while deciding a Review Petition, the Chief Sales Tax personally stepped in to address the issue after the taxpayer’s complaint had remained unresolved for more than two months despite the Ombudsman’s earlier findings.
During the hearing, the Chief Sales Tax assured the Forum that he would personally examine the matter and requested a one-day adjournment to ensure the taxpayer received complete relief. The FTO accepted the request but observed that continued failure to implement its recommendations—despite approval from senior FBR authorities—could have resulted in a recommendation to the Federal Board of Revenue for explanations from all officers responsible for the delay.
When the case resumed the following day, the Chief Sales Tax informed the Forum that the taxpayer’s Sales Tax profile had been successfully unblocked through his personal intervention. The complainant also submitted written confirmation that the grievance had been fully resolved and requested that no further proceedings be pursued.
In light of the development, the FTO withdrew only the proposed recommendation seeking an explanation from the Chief Sales Tax. However, the Ombudsman maintained all other findings and recommendations contained in the original order, clarifying that the modification was made solely to acknowledge the officer’s prompt corrective action and did not alter the findings regarding maladministration.
The FTO also reiterated that taxpayers should not be forced to initiate repeated legal proceedings to obtain relief that is lawfully due. The order noted that delays in implementing the Ombudsman’s recommendations weaken public confidence in Pakistan’s tax administration and undermine the effectiveness of the grievance redressal system.
At the same time, the Ombudsman emphasized that while cases of maladministration will continue to be addressed firmly, public officials who take responsibility and resolve taxpayer issues promptly deserve appropriate recognition. According to the order, such a balanced approach promotes accountability while encouraging a more responsive and efficient public administration within the FBR.
