Karachi: (RightNow) The Federal Tax Ombudsman has instructed the FBR to exercise caution in sealing business premises. A mistakenly sealed location in Karachi has been reopened. The FTO termed the action as unauthorized and mismanagement.

The Federal Tax Ombudsman issued new guidelines to the FBR regarding sealing business premises in tax cases. A taxpayer’s location in Karachi was wrongly sealed. The FTO ordered the immediate de-sealing of the premises.

The FTO emphasized the need for verifying taxpayer identity, registration, and relevant permits before sealing. Clear instructions were recommended for FBR field offices. Tax authorities were directed to act according to the law.

Following the Ombudsman’s instructions, the affected business location was restored. The complainant withdrew the compensation demand. This issue is considered significant within the business community.

It is noteworthy that complaints of mismanagement in tax collection by the FBR have surfaced before. The Ombudsman’s directives could ensure taxpayer protection.