Written by Akhter Syed in Taxation Customs field formations must establish a strong prima facie case and valid grounds before forwarding suspension cases to the FBR Board. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued instructions governing the suspension of officers and officials serving in Customs field formations, directing senior officials to strictly observe prescribed conditions before submitting suspension cases to the Board. According to instructions issued by the FBR Administration/HR Wing with the approval of Member (Admn/HR), all Chief Collectors, Directors General, Collectors and Directors of the Customs Department have been directed to follow the guidelines. The FBR said there must be a strong prima facie case against an officer or official before suspension proceedings are initiated. It further stated that suspension should only be considered where there is a strong reason to prevent the official from continuing to perform duties until the matter is decided. Suspension should not be used merely as a routine disciplinary measure. The instructions specifically state that no officer or official should be suspended for petty breaches of discipline or departmental offences. The FBR has also outlined circumstances in which…