FBR redefines ‘Public Servant’ to include officers of federal, provincial govt, and state-owned entities

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued a new definition of “Public Servant” to broaden the scope of asset declaration requirements, covering officers from federal and provincial governments, autonomous bodies, and state-owned corporations.

In a notification on Wednesday, the FBR issued SRO.1912/2025, which introduces draft amendments to the Sharing of Declaration of Assets of Civil Servants Rules, 2023. Previously, only employees classified as “Civil Servants” under the Civil Servants Act, 1973 were required to declare their assets.

Under the new definition, the term “Public Servant” now includes any officer from federal or provincial governments, as well as employees of autonomous bodies, corporations, and companies owned by these governments. This applies to officers with a pay grade of 17 and above or equivalent. 

The amendment also includes employees governed by the Civil Servants Act, 1973 but excludes certain individuals specified under the National Accountability Ordinance, 1999.

This expanded definition aims to bring a broader segment of public sector employees under the asset declaration framework, strengthening transparency within government bodies.