PPP raises concern over heavy taxes on mobile phone users

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has raised concerns about the extra charges by cellular companies which they claimed are purloining mobile phone users, and have urged the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to take action.

In a statement, PPP Senators Karim Khawaja , Gianvhand and Aajiz Dhamra deplored the unjust heavy taxes on mobile phone users. They said that mobile phone is not a luxury, but now a necessity and the need of every citizen.

Almost 80 percent of mobile phone users in Pakistan are from low-income ranks and should be provided due relief.

They said that the government deducts up to 30 percent on every fresh recharge while the mobile phone service providers covertly deduct Rs.0.15 on each call in addition to fixed call rates.

The mobile phone users are included in the tax net despite  the government earning billions of revenue in taxes them, and so it is unclear which account this portion of revenue goes.

They demanded the PTA to take action against mobile phone companies for covertly deducting  charges and also take measures for return of such money to the users.

They urged the government to provide relief to the mobile phone users and tax should only be levied on purchase of expensive mobile phones.