KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) directed the tax authorities to ensure that if there is no any specific order from any competent court or the authority for blocking bank accounts of the petitioner, particularly, recovery of impugned demand, the petitioner may be allowed to operate bank accounts on a constitutional petition filed by M/s Islam Khan & Sons seeking order for de-blocking of its bank account.
While the hearing of petition, a two-member bench, headed by Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi also issued notices to the tax department and deputy attorney general directing them to file their respective para wise comments on next date of hearing.
During the hearing, counsel for the petitioner stated that petitioner is engaged in the business of distribution of different goods in the market and is fulfilling all liabilities regularly, however, it was surprised when it came to knowledge of the petitioner that his account has been freeze, petitioner also received copy of the notice under section 122 (1)/122 (5) of the Income Tax Order 2001.
Being aggrieved it filed an appeal before commissioner Inland Revenue Appeals which is pending for final disposal, however, tax authorities have taken coercive action and attached its bank account for impugned disputed amount. He said that due to blockage of bank accounts, the petitioner has suffered irreparable loss as well as sustained huge loss in his business.
Citing Secretary Ministry of Finance, chairman Federal Board of Revenue, commissioner Inland Revenue Appeals-V, and others as respondents, petitioner pleaded the court may direct them to re-open its bank accounts and restrain them from taking any coercive action till final disposal of appeal.
