In a collaborative effort to address taxpayers’ grievances, the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and the Regional Tax Office (RTO) Peshawar of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have agreed to reactivate their joint advisory committee. This decision was made during a meeting of the SCCI’s Standing Committees on Income Tax and Inland Revenue Services (IRS) at the Chamber House.1
Purpose and Function of the Joint Advisory Committee
The reactivated committee aims to establish a structured mechanism to:
- Address Taxpayer Grievances: Provide a platform for taxpayers to voice concerns related to tax assessments, notices, and other procedural issues.
- Enhance Facilitation: Ensure that taxpayers receive assistance at every level, promoting a more taxpayer-friendly environment.
Key Participants in the Initiative
The meeting saw participation from notable figures, including:
- Fazal Moqeem Khan, President of SCCI
- Dr. Syed Farooq Jamil, Commissioner Inland Revenue, RTO Peshawar
- Muhammad Jamal Khan, Commissioner Corporate, RTO Peshawar
- Ayesha Dilshad, Additional Commissioner, RTO Peshawar
- Yasir Nabi, Deputy Commissioner, RTO Peshawar
Committee chairmen Haji Muhammad Asif and Zahidullah Shinwari highlighted various taxpayer issues, including:
- Unfriendly attitudes from tax officers
- Harsh or illegal assessments
- Issuance of unwarranted notices
- Freezing of bank accounts
- Complexities in tax laws
- Delays in refund payments
Impact on Taxation and the Economy
The reactivation of the joint advisory committee is poised to have several positive effects:
- Improved Tax Compliance: By addressing grievances promptly, taxpayers are more likely to comply with tax regulations, leading to increased revenue collection.
- Economic Development: Facilitating taxpayers supports business operations, contributing to economic growth in the region.
- Policy Reforms: The committee’s feedback can inform policy changes, leading to a more streamlined and fair taxation system.
Implications for Taxpayers
For taxpayers, this initiative signifies:
- Enhanced Support: A dedicated platform to resolve tax-related issues efficiently.
- Fair Treatment: Efforts to foster a more respectful and understanding relationship between tax authorities and taxpayers.
- Simplified Processes: Potential for reduced bureaucratic hurdles and clearer tax procedures.
The collaborative approach between SCCI and RTO Peshawar reflects a commitment to creating a more transparent and supportive tax environment, ultimately benefiting both the economy and the taxpayers.
