Common Sense Relief for Taxpayers: Why Section 139(1) Due Dates Need an Extension

As the deadline for filing income tax returns looms, many professionals, small businesses, and chartered accountants are facing a familiar frustration: the tools aren’t ready, the portal isn’t stable, and compliance feels more like a race against time than a fair process.

On 24th September 2025, Member of Parliament P.C. Gaddigoudar stepped in on behalf of taxpayers and wrote to the Hon’ble Finance Minister, requesting a much-needed extension of due dates under the Income Tax Act, 1961 for Assessment Year 2025–26. His letter is more than a formality—it’s a reflection of the ground realities many of us are dealing with.

What’s the Issue?

Despite best efforts, the Income Tax portal continues to face technical glitches. Utility forms for filing returns and audit reports have been released late, leaving professionals scrambling to meet deadlines. The result? Stress, errors, and a growing sense that compliance is being compromised—not by taxpayers, but by the system itself.

What’s Being Requested?

The MP’s letter proposes a practical extension of key due dates to give taxpayers breathing room and ensure fair compliance. Here's a snapshot of the current vs proposed deadlines:

Why It Matters

For many taxpayers, especially those in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, digital infrastructure isn’t always reliable. Add to that the late release of filing utilities and portal errors, and you have a recipe for rushed filings and potential penalties.

Extending the due dates isn’t just a technical adjustment—it’s a gesture of trust and fairness. It acknowledges that compliance should be collaborative, not punitive.

Final Thoughts

Tax compliance is a shared responsibility between citizens and the government. But when the tools to comply aren’t ready, it’s only fair to extend the timeline. The request made by MP P.C. Gaddigoudar is a timely reminder that policy must reflect reality.

Let’s hope the Finance Ministry listens not just to the letter, but to the voices behind it.

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