CS Amrut Lakum

The debate on ITR due date extension returns every year. Extension becomes an issue, no extension becomes an issue, even timely extension becomes an issue. The Government has the difficult task of balancing fiscal needs, administrative efficiency, and fairness. Ultimately, the decision to extend or not to extend lies with the Government, guided by what it believes is best for the nation. But as a profession, we have a larger responsibility. Chartered Accountants are not just service providers to assessees, we are stakeholders in the nation’s economic discipline. Assessees seek relief from penalties and technical hurdles. Professionals face heavy workload and systemic challenges. Trade bodies represent collective hardships. Even within our fraternity, questions arise—what ICAI is doing becomes an issue, criticising the Government is an issue, not criticising is also an issue. Yet beyond all these debates, one truth remains clear: each of us knows what needs to be done and what can be done. Compliance is not about fear of penalties, it is about strengthening trust in governance, ensuring timely revenue for development, and building India’s credibility as a disciplined economy. Let us, as responsible stakeholders, move towards a culture where timely compliance is the norm and extensions remain the rare exception. The Government may decide on the extension, but the responsibility of compliance rests with all of us. A stronger compliance culture is not just good for taxpayers or professionals, it is good for the country.

I caught up with an Advocate friend yesterday, and he mentioned that even Lawyers and Advocates should be allowed to conduct Tax Audits, as in the third year of studying LLB, they have the subject of Income Tax and GST… I couldn't help but burst into laughter at the thought!