The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) has imposed a fine equivalent to ten days’ salary on the Director of Excise and Taxation, Islamabad, for failing to disclose information regarding alcohol permits and sales in the capital city. The penalty comes after repeated non-compliance with an information request filed under the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017.

In August 2024, a citizen, Saddia Mazhar, submitted a formal request to the Excise and Taxation Department, seeking details about alcohol permits and sales in Islamabad. The requested information included the total number of alcohol permit holders, beer purchases by these license holders since January 2023, a list of licensed establishments selling alcohol, excise duties collected from these establishments, and the total supply made to permit holders.

Despite the request, the Excise and Taxation Department failed to respond. Following this, Mazhar filed an appeal with the Pakistan Information Commission. The Commission issued multiple notices to the Director of Excise and Taxation, but no representative appeared, nor was the requested information provided. On November 14, 2024, the Commission issued a final show-cause notice under Section 20(1)(f) of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017. A copy of the notice was also sent to the Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, but no action was taken.

In its order issued on November 26, 2024, the Commission expressed concern over the deliberate obstruction of the Act’s implementation. It noted that the officer had been given ample opportunities to comply, including notices sent via registered post, but failed to respond or appear. The Commission emphasized that such conduct undermines the principles of transparency and accountability enshrined in the law and obstructs the public’s right to access information.

As a result, the Commission imposed a fine equivalent to ten days’ salary on the Director of Excise and Taxation for willfully delaying or obstructing the disclosure of information.

The PIC directed the Chief Commissioner of Islamabad Capital Territory, the Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, and the Accountant General Pakistan Revenues to ensure compliance with its order. Notices have also been issued to these authorities to report compliance at the next hearing.