Notices suspended

Our correspondent
LAHORE: The Lahore High Court Wednesday suspended operation of notices served to cable operators by Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) for collection of sales tax. Justice Shahid Jamil Khan was hearing a petition moved by cable operators through advocate Farhan Shahzad. They pleaded through their counsel that PRA had sent notices to cable operators for collection of four years sales tax, ignoring the fact that cable operators are already paying tax to the federal government. They pointed out that levy of sales tax by PRA was tantamount to double taxation which is not permissible under the law. They argued that PRA had acted beyond its mandate and sought setting aside of the notices. The court heard partial arguments and sought replies from PRA and other respondents after stayed the operation of such notices.