FBR Integrity Cell Activation Plan Under IMF Reform Push
The government has pledged to activate the FBR Integrity Cell under its agreement with the International Monetary Fund. This step aims to curb corruption and improve accountability inside the Federal Board of Revenue. Officials say the move will rebuild public trust. Under the plan, authorities will formally notify new Terms of Reference for the Integrity Management Cell. They will also revive the previously inactive body. As a result, oversight within FBR should become stronger and more transparent.
Stronger Oversight and Clear Reporting
The Integrity Management Cell will report directly to the FBR chairman. In addition, a Performance and Integrity Management Committee will supervise its work. This structure aims to ensure independent monitoring. Moreover, FBR will publish anonymised data about complaints. The data will show how many complaints officials received, rejected, or investigated. However, it will not reveal personal details or complaint content. Officials plan to categorise cases by outcome. Therefore, citizens can track progress without risking their privacy. The reporting system should be fully operational by June 2027.
Digital Complaint System
FBR will also digitise its Complaint Management Cell. It will launch a dedicated online platform to log and track corruption complaints. This system will make the process standardised and traceable. In addition, authorities will upgrade the IMC webpage. Citizens will find updated information and clear guidelines there. Consequently, filing complaints should become easier and more secure.
Internal Affairs and Strict Action
An Internal Affairs Unit will operate within FBR. It will report directly to the chairman and enforce anti corruption policies. The unit will investigate misconduct at every staff level.
If officials confirm wrongdoing, they will apply penalties under Efficiency and Discipline Rules. Furthermore, they will refer criminal cases to agencies such as the Federal Investigation Agency and the National Accountability Bureau. Law enforcement bodies, including the police, may also step in.
Finally, FBR will publish disciplinary penalties on its website. This approach promotes transparency and public confidence.
Overall, the FBR Integrity Cell reform marks a key shift in governance. By digitising complaints and strengthening oversight, the government aims to create a fair and accountable tax system for everyone.
