ISLAMABAD: More than 9,000 SIMs belonging to non-filers have been blocked nationwide following directives from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), according to a spokesperson for the tax authority on Wednesday.
The FBR spokesperson stated that the telecommunication companies were informed of the decision to block SIMs in an effort to curb tax evasion and enhance revenue generation amidst challenging economic conditions. This decision was made by parliament and is to be implemented accordingly.
Meanwhile, sources reported that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has distanced itself from the SIM blocking issue, asserting that it does not have the authority to block SIMs. Previously, two telecom firms blocked an additional 3,500 SIMs owned by non-filers on Tuesday, as confirmed by the FBR spokesperson. He added that the SIMs of those who file tax returns will be unblocked immediately.
