Counting the filers

This refers to the news item ‘Return filers increase to 1.74mln’ (March 19). The more important thing is to see the amount of tax collected instead of looking at the total number of filers. Many pensioners and people below the taxable limit have started filing the return simply in the hope of availing facilities allowed to the filers. The tax collection has not widened as it was reported that the FBR is currently facing a record shortfall of Rs485 billion.

Before disillusionment seeps into the public mind against the PTI government for its poor handling of the economy, PM Imran Khan is well advised to shuffle his team. The government must demonstrate its seriousness in addressing the economic challenges – broadening the tax base, implementing austerity in spending, bridging the current account deficit through increase in exports/reduction in imports, and restructuring PIA, PSM and other public-sector entities.

Arif Majeed

Karachi