Extend Income Tax Return Filing Deadline: Advocates Tax Bar Association

The Advocates Tax Bar Association (ATBA) has made representation before Minister of Finance to extend Income Tax Return Filing Deadline.

ATBA Stated as, “With due respect, We are writing to you on behalf of the members of the Advocates’ Tax Bar Association, an esteemed association comprising tax advocates from across India. We deeply appreciate the efforts of the government In addressing the challenges faced by the citizens of our country, especially during times of natural calamities.”

As you are aware, several parts of our country are currently experiencing continuous floods and heavy rainfall, resulting in widespread devastation and loss of life and property. These unfortunate circumstances have severely impacted the lives and livelihoods of our fellow citizens, including our members. In light of these distressing events, we kindly request your attention to an urgent matter that affects the tax community.

The Goods and Services Tax Returns filing deadlines have coincided with the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) of non-audit cases (31st July 2023). There must be gap between dates for these compliances for allowing taxpayers/ tax-professionals to allocate their time and resources effectively. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the current convergence of these deadlines has posed significant challenges for taxpayers/ tax-professionals, particularly in flood-affected regions.

Our members, who diligently serve as tax advocates and consultants, are finding it extremely difficult to fulfill their professional obligations within the existing timeframe. The ongoing disaster response efforts and the subsequent impact on infrastructure, transportation, and connectivity have made it almost impossible for them to meet the impending deadlines.

In light of these exceptional circumstances, we humbly request your intervention in extending the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns by a period of 60 days, till September 30, 2023. This extension would provide much-needed relief to taxpayers/tax-professionals, allowing them to focus on rehabilitation and recovery efforts in flood-affected areas, while also ensuring compliance with their tax obligations.

We understand that the government’s resources are also stretched during these challenging times, and we greatly appreciate your attention to our concerns. We firmly believe that an extension of the income tax return filing deadline would demonstrate the government’s compassion and understanding towards the difficulties faced by taxpayers/ tax-professionals in flood-affected regions.

We are confident that your wisdom and leadership will guide you in making the right decision to support the taxpayers/tax-professionals affected by this unfortunate series of events. On behalf of the members of Advocates’ Tax Bar Association, I express our sincere gratitude for considering our request and assure you of our continued cooperation in building a stronger and more resilient India.

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