The Islamabad High Court (IHC) put on hold the Pakistan Information Commission’s (PIC) orders demanding disclosure of taxpayers’ information. Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro stated that protecting financial privacy takes precedence over the right to access information.
The court issued the restraining order while hearing a petition filed by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The petition contested the PIC’s directives from January 8, 2026, and December 3, 2025. These directives had required the FBR to share taxpayers’ information under the Right to Information law.
During proceedings, the court observed that tax records contain sensitive financial details. Revealing such information could compromise confidentiality. Therefore, the IHC stayed the implementation of the PIC’s orders. The court also issued notices to all concerned parties, seeking their responses on the matter.
Senior advocate Hafiz Ehsan Khokhar appeared on behalf of the FBR and argued that releasing taxpayer data would violate privacy and potentially harm the trust between citizens and the government.
FBR Chairman Highlights Revenue Achievements
Separately, FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial shared updates on the authority’s revenue performance. He said the FBR has recovered Rs. 70 billion under the Super Tax. The amount collected in January has already been added to the total revenue.
During an informal interaction with reporters in Islamabad, Langrial said the FBR has set a revenue target of Rs. 1,028 billion for February. He expressed confidence that the target would be achieved, citing improved collection systems and ongoing monitoring.
Langrial further explained that total collections under the Super Tax are expected to reach Rs. 217 billion this fiscal year. He added that these efforts would strengthen the government’s fiscal position and provide additional resources for development projects.
Court Actions and Next Steps
The IHC’s suspension does not cancel the PIC’s orders permanently. Instead, it halts their implementation until the court hears all parties and evaluates the legal aspects. The court will review responses from the FBR, PIC, and other stakeholders before issuing a final verdict.
This case highlights the delicate balance between transparency and privacy. While the Right to Information Act promotes openness in public matters, financial confidentiality remains a critical concern. Experts say the ruling may set a precedent for future cases involving sensitive taxpayer information.
Overall, the IHC’s ruling highlights the judiciary’s dedication to safeguarding citizens’ financial privacy while ensuring government accountability. Meanwhile, the FBR continues its revenue collection, focusing on transparency, efficiency, and adherence to the law.
