In a decisive move, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has directed the deactivation of mobile phone SIMs belonging to 506,671 individuals not listed as active taxpayers but required to file income tax returns for the tax year 2023.

This action comes through an Income Tax General Order (ITGO) authorized by Section 114B of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001.

The FBR has instructed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and all telecom operators to promptly enforce the ITGO, ensuring immediate implementation of the directive.

Furthermore, it has requested a compliance report from the telecom operators by May 15, 2024.

SIMs these Pakistanis Will be Blocked (full list)

The SIM cards linked to the following individuals’ CNIC will be blocked:

How to Unblock Your SIM Card?

Individuals facing SIM card blockage can have them unblocked by submitting their Income Tax Return for 2023.

The SIM cards will stay blocked until either the FBR or the relevant Commissioner of Inland Revenue restores them. Once tax returns are filed, the authority will decide on SIM card restoration.

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