KARACHI: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has drawn significant attention after suspending seasoned officer Principal Appraiser Irshad Ali Shah, citing alleged absenteeism from duty, despite Shah facing severe medical challenges and undergoing critical procedures, including hospitalization.
Irshad Shah, known for his commendable contributions to the anti-smuggling campaigns under Customs Intelligence and Investigation, found himself in an unexpected storm of disciplinary action.
The case against him stems from his absence from duty and a missed court hearing, reportedly due to a medical emergency. Despite providing timely notification and supporting evidence of his condition to both his department and the court, his plea seems to have fallen on deaf ears.
As a chronic heart patient, Irshad Ali Shah underwent angiography and angioplasty in 2021 and has since been under rigorous medical supervision. Frequent bouts of chest pain and breathing difficulties led him to seek urgent advice from his consultant in Karachi last year. Acting on medical guidance, he applied for leave and permission to leave Islamabad, specifying the medical nature of his request.
However, upon his arrival in Karachi, Shah’s health reportedly took a turn for the worse. Following his doctor’s recommendation, he was prescribed complete rest and scheduled for a follow-up angiography at Civil Hospital Karachi—a trusted and renowned government healthcare facility—on November 16, 2024.
Despite the comprehensive documentation provided by Shah, including medical bills, certificates, and records from Jinnah Hospital Karachi—a prominent government institution—the disciplinary committee failed to acknowledge the legitimacy of his claims. Notably, the committee controversially mischaracterized Jinnah Hospital as a private facility, casting doubt on his evidence and further compounding the situation.
Shah’s absence from duty during this critical period was a direct consequence of his medical condition. His repeated appeals to treat his time away as medical leave, backed by extensive documentation, have raised concerns about procedural fairness and empathy within the FBR’s disciplinary processes.
Colleagues and observers have expressed surprise and dismay at the decision, questioning the ethical implications of penalizing a dedicated officer navigating serious health challenges.
They point to Shah’s decades-long service, particularly his pivotal role in strengthening anti-smuggling operations, as testament to his professionalism and commitment.
For many, the suspension of Irshad Ali Shah is not just a bureaucratic action but a human story that underscores the importance of compassion and understanding in governance.
As voices of support for Shah grow louder, calls for a thorough review of the case—and a reevaluation of how organizations handle medical emergencies among their employees—are becoming increasingly urgent.