ITR Deadline Extension? BJP MPs Request More Time Before Sept 15
As the September 15 deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) nears, appeals for more time are growing stronger. BJP MPs Bhartruhari Mahtab and PP Chaudhary have written to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, requesting an extension for both ITRs and Tax Audit Reports for Assessment Year 2025–26.
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MPs Highlight Concerns
Bhartruhari Mahtab, chairperson of the Finance Committee, cited a petition from the All Odisha Tax Advocates Association (AOTAA). PP Chaudhary, meanwhile, echoed concerns from the Tax Bar Association, Jodhpur. Both flagged persistent glitches on the filing portal, delays in form releases, and insufficient time for accurate compliance.
Previous Deadline Extension
The government had earlier extended the deadline in May, moving it from July 31 to September 15. However, professional bodies argue that the relief came late. Key forms like ITR-2 and ITR-3 were released only in July, while ITR-5, ITR-6, and ITR-7 became available in August, leaving limited preparation time.
Professional Bodies Join In
Along with AOTAA and the Jodhpur Tax Bar, other associations such as the Karnataka State Chartered Accountants Association (KSCAA), Advocates Tax Bar Association (ATBA), and ICAI’s Central India Regional Council (CIRC) have also demanded more time for taxpayers.
Filing Numbers Still Low
According to Income Tax Department data, only 4.89 crore ITRs had been filed as of September 8 — significantly lower than the 7.28 crore filed by July 31 last year. The shortfall indicates millions of taxpayers are still struggling to complete filings before the deadline.
Risks of Last-Minute Filing
Experts caution against waiting until the last moment. “Filing closer to the deadline increases interest on self-assessment tax and delays refunds,” explained Sujit Bangar of Taxbuddy.com. Technical glitches may also worsen as portal traffic spikes near the due date.
Belated Return Option
Those who miss the September 15 deadline can still file a belated return until December 31. However, benefits like carrying forward losses will not be available. Tax experts advise treating any extension as a buffer rather than the final date. “Filing early ensures peace of mind and saves unnecessary interest outgo,” said Himank Singla of SBHS & Associates.
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