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Islamabad’s literary community breathed a sigh of relief as Saeed Book Bank, one of the city’s most iconic bookstores, was de-sealed by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) after being shut earlier this week. The store, located in F-7’s Jinnah Super Market, had been sealed for non-compliance with the FBR’s Point of Sale (POS) integration system.
The background of the closure traces back to April when the FBR issued a notice directing the bookstore to link its POS system. After the directive was not followed, the Regional Tax Office proceeded with sealing the outlet on Tuesday. The action triggered backlash among readers, diplomats, and tourists, given the bookstore’s status as a cultural landmark.
According to officials, the premises were reopened once management assured compliance. However, the bookstore’s owner, Ahmed Saeed, speaking from London, criticized the move as “unjustified” and harmful to the store’s 80-year-old reputation. He stressed that books and educational stationery are exempt from sales tax under the Sales Tax Act and said the matter stemmed only from a minor POS registration issue. Saeed also warned that without government support, he might be forced to shut down and rent the space to more profitable businesses.
Readers and customers, who had expressed disappointment at the closure, welcomed the reopening. Store manager Akhtar Gul confirmed that the outlet was back in operation and that loyal customers were delighted to see their favorite bookstore open once again.
This episode highlights the tension between regulatory enforcement and the survival of cultural institutions in Pakistan. While compliance is necessary, many believe bookstores should be facilitated rather than penalized, especially when they serve as hubs for education and culture.
Question: Should government authorities adopt a more supportive approach toward cultural institutions like bookstores instead of taking punitive actions?
