Voice Of Dissent: RCCI shows concern on PRA raids

RAWALPINDI: An urgent meeting of trade associations of Rawalpindi was held at the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) on Wednesday. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the prevailing situation of raids and closure of business centers by Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) and Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The meeting was chaired by president RCCI Mian Humayun Parvez. The RCCI president also asked government especially FBR to extend the date of annual tax returns as most of the Tax consultants were on Hajj or on Eid holidays. Trade associations’ representatives said the traders are paying taxes and play an active role in boosting trade activities and serve as a backbone of the economy. PRA staff misbehaves upon raid; treat like as we are criminals. This is very concerning as it is damaging their ego and reputation of the business center. If they continue this practice we will call for a strike and close the whole city, they announced.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 22^nd, 2016.