Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday suspended Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) orders for leaking taxpayers’ sensitive data, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Tuesday.
Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro heard the case on a petition filed by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)
In its petition FBR stated that financial confidentiality takes precedence over the right to information; tax records cannot be disclosed even under the Right to Information Act.
FBR challenged the orders of the Pakistan Information Commission about the leaking of taxpayers’ data.
Pakistan Information Commission issued orders for taxpayers’ data on January 8, 2026, and December 3, 2025.
According to Section 216 of the Income Tax Ordinance, there is a complete legal prohibition on disclosure of taxpayer information.
FBR lawyer argued that sharing of taxpayers’ data and identity is a complete violation of the law.
He said the aim is to protect taxpayer information, restore confidence in the tax system, and prevent misuse of sensitive financial data.
The PIC order directly conflicts with special financial laws designed to protect taxpayer privacy.
Reporter: Ehtesham Kiyani