December 23, 2024 (MLN): The Pakistan Tax Bar Association (PTBA) has raised serious concerns about the misuse of taxpayers' money, emphasizing that it is being spent without proper consideration.
In a letter written to Chairman Standing Commitee on Finance and revenue, PTBA have outlined that Pakistan's exchequer is depleting, and tax revenue collection has not yet met the expected targets.
The PTBA has raised objections regarding large official delegations on foreign trips, increased budget allocations for non-development expenditures, and recent salary revisions for government employees.
The PTBA asserted that taxpayers have a fundamental right to know how their money is being utilized.
Consequently, they have formally requested that your office, or the relevant ministry, provide detailed information on the allocation and outcomes of taxpayer-funded expenditures.
To address these concerns, the PTBA has recommended the formation of a high-powered Taxpayer Committee to oversee government spending of public funds.
This committee's approval should be mandatory before allocating taxpayer money for expenses such as foreign delegations, salary increases for government employees, or other non-development activities.
Even for development projects, the PTBA suggests a thorough evaluation of the taxpayer funds utilized.
The association emphasizes the need to clarify how such spending benefits the public, particularly in terms of infrastructure, education, health, and transportation.
In light of the above submissions, the PTBA respectfully requests your indulgence to establish a high-powered Taxpayer Committee at the national level with the aforementioned mandate.
This request for information is made pursuant to Article 19A of the Constitution of Pakistan.
