IHC Halts Govt’s Move to Block SIMs of Non-Tax Filers

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has intervened to pause the government’s plan to block mobile phone SIM cards belonging to non-tax filers. This decision comes in the wake of an injunction issued by the court today, following a petition filed by private telecom operator Zong.

The contentious issue arose as the government aimed to enhance tax compliance by blocking SIMs of non-tax filers. However, the move faced staunch opposition from telecom operators and legal challenges, culminating in the recent court injunction.

Representing Zong, lawyer Salman Akram Raja argued before IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq that the government’s decision, facilitated by a recent Constitutional amendment, violates constitutional rights. Raja contended that the action encroaches upon the freedom of business guaranteed under Article 18 of the Constitution.

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Moreover, Raja emphasized the potential economic repercussions, citing that the blocking of over 500,000 SIMs could lead to an annual loss of Rs 1 billion. This concern underscores the complexity of balancing fiscal imperatives with constitutional protections.

The IHC has requested a response from the relevant authorities by May 27.