The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) announced on Monday that it has transferred 60 officers from the Inland Revenue Service, with immediate effect.
The transfers, according to an official notification, were implemented without delay, and the board has instructed the officers to submit their charge relinquishment and assumption reports for record-keeping and further action.
In a separate development, the Inland Service Officers Association, a body representing FBR officers, has raised serious concerns about the authority's inability to meet its tax collection targets.
The organisation claims that a combination of reduced incentives and frequent transfers is directly responsible for the anticipated shortfall of Rs 365 billion in tax revenue.
The association, in a statement following a self-conducted survey, pointed out that the welfare of junior officers within the FBR's Inland Revenue Service Group has significantly deteriorated.
Citing discrepancies in facilities, the statement emphasised that a staggering 80% of junior officers are deprived of transport and fuel allowances.
Additionally, officers posted to remote areas face issues related to accommodation, further exacerbating their professional difficulties.
The officers have also expressed frustration over the ongoing reform program, which they believe has worsened working conditions within the department. The frequent transfers and lack of resources are reportedly contributing to low morale among officers, with many attributing these problems to the ongoing challenges in meeting tax targets.
Adding to the tensions within the FBR, there are allegations of corruption surrounding the officers recently transferred. The Inland Service Officers Association has criticized the board for failing to take decisive action on these concerns, further souring the working environment. The promotion process for grade 18 and 19 officers of the Inland Revenue Service has also stalled, deepening dissatisfaction within the ranks.
In light of these issues, the officers’ organization has raised alarms that the tax collection shortfall could reach an estimated Rs 365 billion. The FBR's inability to address the concerns of its workforce, the organization claims, is threatening to undermine the country's fiscal health and economic stability.
