THE withdrawal of the 25% tax rebate for teachers has become a pressing issue, underscoring the financial challenges faced by educators. While several rulings have already been made in favor of teachers, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) continues to employ delaying tactics, disregarding both legal precedents and the financial well-being of the teaching community.
As a senior subject specialist until 2023, I was promoted to Principal at Government Higher Secondary School, Dina. Following my promotion, the FBR withdrew my tax rebate, prompting me to appeal to the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO). My case was decided in my favour within 60 days, but the FBR has since challenged the decision, despite similar cases already being resolved at higher levels.
The issue isn’t isolated. The Headmaster Associations of multiple divisions, including Gujranwala, Sargodha, Sahiwal, Dera Ghazi Khan and Multan, had earlier appealed to the FTO for the continuation of the tax rebate. In each instance, the FTO ruled in favour of the educators, granting them the much-needed financial relief. However, the FBR’s repeated appeals against these decisions, including escalating cases to the President of Pakistan, demonstrate a disregard for the legal process and the hardships faced by teachers.
A significant milestone occurred when the President of Pakistan dismissed the FBR’s appeal in the Gujranwala Division case, upholding the FTO’s decision. Despite this clear and final precedent, the FBR continues to challenge similar rulings, including my case, creating unnecessary delays and prolonging financial uncertainty for educators.
It is worth noting that over eight months have passed since several divisions, including Sargodha, Sahiwal, D.G. Khan and Multan, received favorable decisions. Yet, the implementation of these rulings has been stalled due to bureaucratic hurdles and deliberate delaying tactics by the FBR.
As the president of the Teacher Association in District Jhelum, I strongly urge the government to intervene. Repeated appeals on identical cases undermine the integrity of the judicial process and erode trust in the system. Teachers, who are already burdened by financial pressures, cannot afford such delays. The 25% tax rebate is not just a monetary relief but also a recognition of the critical role teachers play in nation-building.
I appeal to the President of Pakistan and all relevant authorities to ensure that justice is not only served but also implemented without delay. The government must act decisively to stop the FBR’s unwarranted appeals and restore financial stability to the teaching community. It is time to honor the contributions of educators and provide them the respect and relief they deserve.
—The writer is Principal, Govt Higher Secondary School Dina, Jhelum.
