Bill presented in NA to restrict non-filers from purchasing cars

The federal government introduced a bill on Wednesday aimed at tightening regulations for non-filers of taxes, limiting their ability to engage in various financial activities.

The Tax Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, presented by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, proposes several restrictions for individuals who fail to file tax returns.

The bill stipulates that non-filers will not be allowed to purchase vehicles over 800cc, buy property beyond a certain limit, or make financial transactions through bank accounts above a specified threshold.

They will also be banned from purchasing shares, motorcycles, rickshaws, and tractors.

Additionally, the bank accounts of non-registered businesspersons will be frozen, and they will be prohibited from transferring property. The government will be granted the power to seal the properties and businesses of non-filers.

The amendment allows the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to freeze bank accounts and restrict property transfers for individuals who are not registered with the tax authority.

Accounts will be unfrozen within two days once the individual completes the registration process.

The bill will take effect after approval from the federal government.

The National Commission on the Status of Women (Amendment) Bill, 2024, also came before the House, with a report presented by Chaudhary Mahmood Bashir Virk. This bill seeks amendments to the National Commission on the Status of Women Act, 2012.