For a state to function, it is mandatory to pass laws followed by implementation, without discrimination through effective system of ‘Reward and Punishment’ and nobody, including elected executive or those holding public offices or uniformed bureaucracy, have the right to commit injustices by selective application. Other than mere pep-talk such as statements by Finance Minister directing FBR to achieve revenue collection target for current fiscal year, or pledges to root out terrorism and organised crime by PM and his cabinet, the ground realities exhibited by acts, point out the bitter truth, that nexus between political power holders and organised crime continues to flourish in this unfortunate country.
The massive tax evasion and defiant flight of capital from Pakistan continues to erode this nation from within, because state sovereignty cannot be maintained if national economy continues to depend on foreign debts to bridge ever widening gap between Tax and GDP. A country plagued by terrorism cannot afford to turn a blind eye to money laundering and must be seen utilising all existing avenues for tax collection, to raise enough finances to invest in education, health, provision of basic necessities and law enforcement. Unfortunately those who have benefitted from weak governance, whose greed for black money knows no bounds, continue to be an obstacle for any resolve to give Pakistan a chance to enforce law and take action.
The high profile incident involving model Ayyan Ali, caught red handed at Islamabad Airport, attempting to smuggle half a million dollars and yet even after months, no formal charges have been formally finalized, nor is FBR willing to prosecute her under section 192-A of Income Tax Ordinance 2001 for concealment of income and tax evasion. As long as this nexus between political stake holders and crime exist, Pakistan will continue to be victim of terrorism and economic bleeding, weakening state sovereignty to delight of our known enemies.
MALIK T ALI,
Lahore, June 27.