Islamabad – The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has strongly criticised a recent report issued by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), calling it inaccurate and demanding its immediate withdrawal, as tensions grow between professional bodies and tax authorities over alleged underreporting of income.
The dispute erupted after the FBR released data suggesting that a significant number of doctors were among those filing nil or minimal income tax returns. The figures quickly sparked public debate and drew sharp criticism from the medical community, which argues that the report unfairly targets doctors without presenting a complete or contextual picture.
In a formal response, PMA officials rejected the implication that doctors are deliberately evading taxes, stating that the report fails to account for the realities of the healthcare profession. They pointed out that a large number of doctors are salaried employees in government hospitals, teaching institutions and private healthcare facilities, where income tax is deducted at source, often leaving no additional taxable income to declare.
The association further criticised the FBR for clubbing all doctors into a single category, without distinguishing between consultants, general practitioners, junior doctors and house officers. PMA leaders warned that such broad generalisations risk damaging the credibility of the profession and undermining public trust.
Medical representatives also highlighted the rising costs associated with running private clinics, including rent, utilities, staff salaries and medical equipment, which significantly reduce net earnings. They argued that the FBR report ignores these operational expenses, presenting a distorted view of doctors’ actual income.
Terming the report “misleading and irresponsible,” the PMA urged the tax authority to consult professional bodies before releasing sector-specific data. The association reiterated that doctors are not opposed to taxation but demand a fair, transparent and evidence-based approach rather than what they described as selective scrutiny.
The controversy has added to broader criticism of the FBR’s enforcement strategy, with analysts cautioning that public naming and broad-brush reporting may fuel resentment rather than improve tax compliance.
As the standoff continues, the PMA has warned that failure to withdraw or clarify the report could lead to further action, signalling an escalating rift between the medical community and the country’s tax administration.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.