ISLAMABAD: The first quarter’s below-target performance in revenue collection has become a matter of great concern for FBR. In an amendment to jurisdiction of Commissioners, FBR included broadening-the-tax-base responsibility and empowered them to take strict measures in this regard.
The revenue authority issued amended jurisdiction order to all the Regional Tax Offices (RTOs), under which Commissioners Inland of RTOs have jurisdiction over all persons falling within the limits of their respective areas, who are potential taxpayers liable to furnish their returns of income and have been identified on the basis of information collected for broadening of tax base.
FBR in order to curb tax evasion and enhance tax base has accorded unlimited jurisdiction to Commissioners Inland Revenue. These additional powers include raiding and searching private premises and initiate penal and prosecution proceedings for non-compliance. The powers and authorities delegated upon the Commissioners include enforcement of income tax returns; passing orders pertaining to assessment/reassessment of income tax returns and levying additional tax for non-payment of tax.
The Commissioners are authorised to exercise Section 175 of Income Tax Ordinance besides the officers are empowered to select and conduct audit and recover the tax evaded or avoided. Besides, the Commissioners can issue notices to obtain information or evidence under Section 176 of Income Tax Ordinance.
