APROPOS the news report ‘Army chief says economy showing mixed indicators’ (Oct 12). General Bajwa concluded his address to businessmen by reminding them of their duty as he saw it, which included paying their taxes, since the contribution of direct taxes to Pakistan’s treasury was abysmally low.

The army chief has hit the nail on the head. The country needs taxes to survive. I have a suggestion to increase tax collection substantially. Military courts should try all smugglers and tax evaders. The big fish among them be dealt with severely.

Moreover, the 5,000-rupee note and prize bonds of a denomination above Rs 5,000 should be withdrawn, as these are used by smugglers and tax evaders for their nefarious purposes.

Shakir Lakhani

Karachi

Published in Dawn, October 15th, 2017