ISLAMABAD ( WEB NEWS )
Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Zafar-ul-Haq Hijazi has reiterated that alleviating taxpayers’ difficulties and promoting ease of doing business remain the foremost priorities of his institution. Addressing a well-attended gathering at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), he highlighted the proactive role of the FTO in providing relief to aggrieved taxpayers and addressing maladministration within the taxation system since its inception.
Speaking to representatives of trade and industry, former ICCI Presidents, Executive Committee members, and senior office-bearers including Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub and Vice President Irfan Chaudhry, the FTO made it clear that there would be no compromise on the respect and honour of taxpayers. He stated that taxpayers are the backbone of the government system, as the State runs on their contributions. He emphasized that abolishing the culture of harassment of tax filers is among his top priorities and declared zero tolerance for any form of malpractice, mistreatment, or harassment.
Zafar-ul-Haq Hijazi announced the establishment of three Advisory Committees at the headquarters level: the Income Tax Advisory Committee, Sales and Excise Tax Advisory Committee, and Customs Advisory Committee. These committees will include the President of ICCI, the President of Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the President of the Tax Bar, along with other relevant stakeholders. The committees will deliberate separately and advise the FTO on improving service delivery. Similar regional committees will also be formed to ensure effective coordination and facilitation at the local level.
He stated that the primary purpose of his visit to ICCI was to bridge the gap between taxpayers and the FTO and to assure the business community that the institution stands firmly behind them for justice. He urged the attendees to bring their issues directly to his notice, assuring them that they would witness a visible difference in the resolution of their complaints.
Almas Ali Jovindah, Advisor (Legal) to the FTO, encouraged the business community to act as ambassadors of the institution, emphasizing that the FTO provides free-of-cost and prompt relief to complainants against the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). He informed that the FTO is dispensing justice within 60 days and stressed the need to strengthen this partnership for the larger interest of the community.
ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood, while highlighting issues faced by the business community, including those relating to the real estate sector, acknowledged that tax collection is fundamental to the functioning of the State. He appreciated the business community for fulfilling its national responsibility but underscored that a fair, just, efficient, and simple taxation system is essential to build confidence among taxpayers. He noted that the FTO has been playing an effective role in resolving business-related complaints, which has significantly enhanced the confidence of the business community in the institution.
Chairman ICCI Founder Group Tariq Sadiq termed the appointment of Zafar-ul-Haq Hijazi as a “cool breeze” for the business community. Chairman ICCI Standing Committee Mian Mohammad Ramazan moderated the session.
Former Presidents Mian Shaukat Masood, Shakeel Munir, and other participants raised questions regarding their departmental issues. Among those present were former President Khalid Javaid, Mohammad Ejaz Abbasi, Executive Members Abdul Rehman Siddiqui, Sanaullah Khan, Zulqurnain Abbasi, Ishaq Sial, Mirza Mohammad Ali, ICCI senior member Isran Mishwani.