FBR Goes After 30 Social Media Influencers for Hiding Real Income

Chairman Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Rashid Langrial, in an informal conversation with the media, revealed that the FBR has issued notices to 30 individuals who showcased their lavish lifestyles on social media but underreported their income in tax returns. He said that people displaying expensive clothes, homes, cars, and even horses online are now under the FBR’s radar for filing incomplete or inaccurate tax returns. Langrial stated that the FBR has gathered comprehensive data on those who either failed to file tax returns or submitted incorrect information while flaunting their wealth on social media. “ We will continue robust action against tax evaders across the country,” he said, adding that a Chief Commissioner for Enforcement has been appointed to oversee these operations nationwide. All actions against tax evaders will now be coordinated under this single authority, and daily reports on the crackdown are being compiled. Highlighting recent progress, Langrial noted that sales tax collection from the sugar industry has increased by Rs. 40 billion in the past year. Previously, there were separate rates for taxed and untaxed sugar, but now, he warned, anyone found holding untaxed sugar stock anywhere in the country will face the strictest action. He also emphasized that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has zero tolerance for tax evaders and has directed the FBR to take the toughest possible measures. On the issue of smuggling, Langrial said that customs authorities are conducting daily operations to curb the flow of smuggled goods, and this campaign will not slow down. added that smugglers have caused harm to customs officials, with two tax officers having lost their lives in the line of duty.