Islamabad, June 21, 2021 (PPI-OT): The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Saturday supported the decision of the government to introduce changes in the Income Tax Ordinance to boost revenue. The move is good by Section 203 (A) must be amended so that it does not contradict the government’s policy of minimal interaction between taxpayers and the tax authority, it said.

We fully support the decision of the government regarding installation of a point-of-sale (POS) system and measures such as a fine of one million rupees and sealing of the shop which should not be withdrawn, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President PEW.

He said that the business community is worried about possible harassment by the tax officials in the wake of new powers granted to them therefore safeguards should be provided. Dr Murtaza Mughal said that the tax officer should only arrest a taxpayer after undeniable proof of tax evasion which can be proved in the court of law.

Tax officer should be punished and losses of the businessman must be compensated for losses if the charges against him could not be proved in the court, he demanded. He said that the business community should realize that the country is in a dire need of inclusive and sustainable growth for which Government need to enhance revenues and promote productive sectors including agriculture which has remained neglected for decades. The country has become a net importer of food products spending billions of dollars on food therefore the international food prices were having a direct impact in Pakistan, he added.

For more information, contact:
President
Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW)
402, 4th Floor, Gulistan Khan House, Fazal-e-Haq Road,
82-East, Blue Area, Islamabad
Tel: +92-51-2510375
Fax: +92-51-2802449
Cell: +92-321-5157671
Email: president@pakistaneconomywatch.com
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