Punjab begins action against unregistered restaurants and banguet halls

LAHORE: Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz has directed authorities to launch an immediate crackdown on unregistered restaurants and marriage halls across the province.

Chairing a high-level meeting on Monday, Maryam Nawaz approved the registration of all hospitality businesses – big and small – saying that tax evasion in the guise of informality would no longer be tolerated.

Rejecting all proposals to increase new taxes, the chief minister stressed that the government’s priority is to broaden the tax base rather than putting additional burden on already tax-stricken citizens. “A person earning Rs200,000 pays tax, while someone earning crores walks for free? This will not be allowed,” she said, highlighting the need for a better system.

Maryam Nawaz directed the Punjab Revenue Authority, Mines and Minerals Department and other concerned agencies to identify new revenue streams and ensure strict compliance among businesses. She stressed that voluntary taxpayers should not be penalized until the thieves are stopped.

Reiterating her commitment to fiscal reforms, Maryam Nawaz assured that her administration would implement fair taxation and inclusive economic governance without increasing the financial burden on the common people.