USA, Canada, Saudi Arabia, China ‘Overseas Pakistanis, foreigners timely filing complaints with FTO’

ISLAMABAD: The overseas Pakistanis and non-residents in United States of America (USA), Canada, Saudi Arabia, and China are timely filing complaints against the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) with the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) with the help of digital initiative.

This was disclosed by Almas Ali Jovindah, Advisor Legal & Executive Secretary of the OIC Ombudsman Association during an awareness workshop organised at the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Secretariat for the law students of Sandal Law College, Faisalabad here on Wednesday.

Almas highlighted the importance of technology in simplifying the adjudication process, allowing complainants from Pakistan and abroad — including America, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and China — to connect remotely for hearings. This digital initiative has helped overcome delays caused by the non-availability of parties, ensuring swift and efficient case resolutions.

Federal Tax Ombudsman Dr Jah, Federal Tax Ombudsman & Secretary General of the OIC Ombudsman Association, emphasised the importance of justice and timely relief in legal practice.

The youth is our future, and I look forward to seeing the legal fraternity uphold justice and ensure timely relief for every client, he remarked.

He encouraged students to participate in the FTO’s internship programme and contribute to promoting the institution’s mandate. The workshop was led by Almas Ali Jovindah, Advisor Legal and Executive Secretary of the OIC Ombudsman Association and Focal Person Ombudsman (FPO), alongside Muhammad Arif Humayun, Assistant Advisor.

Almas enlightened the students on the pivotal role of the FTO in addressing taxpayer grievances and ensuring fairness in tax administration. He highlighted one of the most significant achievements of the FTO — extending relief efforts beyond individual taxpayers to organisations, marking a major milestone in its mission.

Reflecting on the institution’s progress from 2021 to 2024, he stated that the Federal Tax Ombudsman has been a beacon of change, working tirelessly to address grievances and ensure justice for taxpayers.

He also shared that the adjudication process has been reduced to just 35 days, significantly expediting case resolutions. Looking ahead to 2025, Almas announced plans for an extensive media campaign and nationwide internship programs, recognising the crucial role of public awareness in encouraging taxpayers to seek justice.

Following his address, Muhammad Arif Humayun delivered a presentation on the FTO’s working mechanisms and shared insights into significant cases handled by the institution.

One exemplary case discussed was the FTO’s recommendation to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) regarding unjustified withholding tax deductions by the Punjab Council of Arts and Culture. The decision ensured that tax practices adhered to the Income Tax Ordinance, preventing undue financial burdens on low-income individuals.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025