MULTAN: Pakistan Tax Bar Council President Anwar Kashif Mumtaz has emphasized the urgent need for modern reforms in the tax appeals system, citing rapid technological advancements and the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) efforts to adapt to contemporary demands. S
peaking at a PTBA’s sixth Executive Committee meeting, he underscored that a transparent, efficient, and taxpayer-friendly system is essential for economic stability. He highlighted the role of technology in strengthening FBR’s operations and stated that tax practitioners must be well-versed in legal frameworks, accounting expertise, and technological advancements to effectively address taxpayer concerns and contribute to economic progress.
Mumtaz pointed to serious challenges emerging from the implementation of Section 126A, which has led to the transfer of pending income case funds to the government treasury despite cases still being under trial. Furthermore, arbitrary restrictions have placed undue pressure on taxpayers, making it difficult for those lacking financial resources to comply with the 30% advance payment requirement before filing an appeal. He noted that the new appeals system has overburdened tax tribunals, as cases are no longer being filtered effectively.
To modernize tax practice, the Pakistan Tax Bar Association (PTBA) is introducing technological training for smaller tax bars nationwide, including Multan Tax Bar. As part of this initiative, members are being trained in AI-powered tools like ChatGPT to ensure they remain well-informed on tax regulations. Additionally, PTBA has directed tax bars across Pakistan to submit their budget proposals promptly, aiming to shape a taxpayer-centric national budget.
During PTBA’s sixth Executive Committee meeting, it was revealed that the organization has not yet established a permanent office, despite operating for over 35 years. Mumtaz assured members that efforts were underway to set up a permanent headquarters soon. Furthermore, a one-year membership card will be introduced, offering subsidized services at hotels, airlines, and railway networks for bar members. To facilitate tax practitioners in regions lacking tribunal facilities, PTBA plans to implement video-link hearings and develop new infrastructure to ensure ease of access.
For the first time in history, a post-budget seminar will be held in Quetta, bringing together tax bar representatives from across the country.
The meeting was attended by key figures, including Chaudhry Waheeduddin (Lahore Tax Bar President), Muhammad Zubair (Karachi Tax Bar President), Tahir Mahmood (Islamabad Tax Bar President), Faheem Ahmed (Peshawar Tax Bar President), Shahid Hafeez (Faisalabad Tax Bar President), Ali Hassan (Gujranwala Tax Bar President), and Saeed Baloch (Quetta Tax Bar President). The next meeting is scheduled in Peshawar, where key policy decisions will be taken under Mumtaz’s leadership
