We are not against taxation, but we reject any draconian overreach that threatens our existence,” says Abuzar Shad
By Our Correspondent
LAHORE – President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mian Abuzar Shad, has strongly condemned the recent amendments made to the Income Tax Ordinance 2001 through a Presidential Ordinance, terming it a “conspiracy against Pakistan’s economy” and a direct assault on the business community.
In a powerful statement, the LCCI President demanded the immediate removal of FBR Chairman Rashid Mehmood Langrial, warning that if the government fails to act, traders and industrialists across the country will be compelled to symbolically hand over the keys of their businesses and factories to the government in protest.
“These anti-business decisions cannot be taken by anyone with the country’s best interest in mind. They undermine trade, industry, and national economic stability,” Abuzar Shad said, criticizing the inclusion of new sections like 3A, 6A under Section 140, and 175C in the Income Tax Ordinance, which provide extraordinary powers to tax authorities.
He argued that just as doctors are governed by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council and judges are drawn from the legal fraternity, institutions like the FBR should be overseen by an advisory board composed of seasoned traders, industrialists, and economists. “The FBR must not operate in isolation but under the guidance of those who understand the dynamics of trade and production,” he asserted.
Abuzar Shad expressed deep frustration over the disconnect between different arms of the government. “On one side, Finance Ministry officials, NAB representatives, and regulatory heads are meeting chamber members to resolve bottlenecks in trade and industrial operations. Yet on the other, laws are quietly introduced that threaten economic freedom and trust.”
He called the amendments a blow to transparency and due process, stating that provisions like freezing bank accounts without notice and deploying FBR officers inside business premises are unacceptable intrusions. “These steps discourage investment and push businesses into distress.”
The LCCI President also criticized the manner in which the ordinance was issued, bypassing parliamentary oversight under Article 89 of the Constitution. He urged the government to immediately review and repeal the ordinance and instead adopt a consultative legislative process involving all relevant stakeholders.
In response to the unfolding crisis, the LCCI has called an emergency meeting of chambers and trade associations on Monday (today) to discuss a united response.
“The business community stands united in defense of its rights. We are not against taxation, but we reject any draconian overreach that threatens our existence,” concluded Abuzar Shad.
