Shabbar Zaidi says considering a middle way over CNIC issue

ISLAMABAD (92 News) – Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Shabbar Zaidi has said that they are considering a middle way over the issue of computerized national identity card. Briefing the Standing Committee on Finance of the National Assembly on Friday, he said that a 19 percent increase has been witnessed in the direct tax revenue, while sales tax had increased by 23 percent. “We have achieved the 90 percent target in three months,” he said. The committee members said that business activities had been affected due to the condition of the CNIC. “A solution to the issue should be found,” he said. Meanwhile, FBR Chairman Shabbar Zaidi and NADRA Chairman Usman Yousaf Mubeen called on Prime Minister Imran Khan. They discussed the matter pertaining to an increase in the tax net. The prime minister said that the tax net should be increased to increase the capability of the government. “After an increase in the tax net, the burden of extra taxes on the taxpayers would be reduced,” he said. Imran Khan said that the move would ensure provision of education, health and other amenities in far-flung areas. He said that the tax payment is a national obligation. “The restoration of credibility of taxpayers is a key factor for increasing the tax net,” he added. The prime minister said that the government was striving to make the tax system transparent. “Patriotic citizens should play their role in the progress of the country,” he urged.