Karnataka Commerce Groups Demand Extension for ITR Filing Deadline

The Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FKCCI) and the Chartered Accountants Association, Surat (CAAS), have formally requested the Indian government to extend the Income Tax Return (ITR) filing deadline of September 15, 2025. This appeal comes as various organizations have reported ongoing issues with the filing process, citing technical difficulties and compliance challenges that hinder timely submissions.

Both FKCCI and CAAS have articulated their concerns in letters addressed to the chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). They argue that frequent changes to ITR forms and persistent technical glitches have led to significant delays in filing returns, thereby compromising compliance with the established deadlines.

In its correspondence, FKCCI highlighted the struggles faced by both professionals and taxpayers. President MG Balakrishna noted that “extensive changes in the ITR Forms” have resulted in numerous technical issues. He emphasized the need for an extension to allow adequate time for compliance and to avoid potential hardships for taxpayers and professionals alike. The FKCCI’s requests aim to ensure that all stakeholders can navigate the new requirements without unnecessary pressure.

Concerns from Chartered Accountants Association, Surat

The CAAS has echoed similar sentiments, voicing frustration over the delayed release of essential utilities for ITR forms. In a letter to the CBDT chairman, the association pointed out that critical forms such as ITR-5, ITR-6, and ITR-7 were released late, with ITR-5 being made available only on August 8, 2025, and ITR-6 on August 14, 2025. This delay leaves audit-assessees facing a mere 40 days to complete extensive compliance work before the statutory deadline of September 30, 2025.

The CAAS also raised alarms about ongoing glitches on the ITR portal, despite previous judicial directions for prompt resolution. President Hardik Kakadiya criticized the CBDT for its apparent indifference to the challenges faced by taxpayers. He stated, “Grievances continue to be closed without redressal, uploads fail at the eleventh hour, and acknowledgements vanish into thin air.”

In addition to technical issues, the CAAS drew attention to the impact of natural calamities in various states, including Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat. These regions are grappling with severe flooding, disrupting power, internet services, and office operations. Kakadiya argued that such circumstances should prompt the government to consider the realities faced by taxpayers rather than adhering strictly to compliance timelines.

The association is not merely seeking extensions but is demanding time compensation for delays attributed to systemic failures. Kakadiya remarked, “We do not beg for extensions. We demand time compensation for the days and weeks lost.” He emphasized that the festive season, spanning from September 22, 2025, to October 27, 2025, further complicates compliance, as many individuals will be engaged in celebrations rather than tax-related tasks.

The FKCCI and CAAS collectively advocate for extensions that would facilitate compliance, alleviate pressure on taxpayers, and prevent unnecessary litigation. Their calls for reform are underscored by a shared commitment to ensure that the transition to the revised ITR forms is as smooth and effective as possible.

As the deadline approaches, the response of the CBDT will be crucial in determining how taxpayers navigate these challenges in the coming months.