Srinagar: An outreach programme cum interactive session, part of the series “Mulaqat 2.0,” was successfully organized by the Income Tax Department, J&K, in collaboration with the District Administration, Doda, at the DC Office. The event, aimed at raising tax awareness and cautioning the public about the repercussions of incorrect claims in their Income Tax Returns (ITRs), witnessed active participation from around 250 Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs), government employees, representatives of trade associations, and members of the business fraternity.
Chaired by M.P Singh, Principal Commissioner of Income Tax, J&K and Ladakh, the session emphasized the importance of taxes in nation-building and infrastructural development. Rahul Padha, Joint Commissioner of Income Tax, Srinagar, addressed the gathering, revealing the detection of a large-scale bogus refund scam involving government employees in the previous year. The malpractice, where employees claimed fake deductions in their ITRs to receive significant Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) refunds, resulted in a substantial revenue loss for the department.
M.L Dogra, Income Tax Officer, Udhampur, highlighted that a majority of these fraudulent claims were detected in Doda, Kishtwar, and Bhaderwah. The bogus deductions were made under various sections of the Income Tax Act, leading to the leakage of hard-earned revenue. Dogra warned that notices under section 133(6) of the Income Tax Act were being issued to those who made false deduction claims in their ITRs. Failure to comply with the notice could result in penalties and scrutiny.
Ankit Dhaka, Tax Recovery Officer, Srinagar, informed the audience about the department’s efforts to recover taxes from defaulters. He emphasized that prosecution would be launched against those who fail to comply with recovery efforts. To avoid penalties and legal actions, taxpayers were advised to revise their ITRs before 30th December, 2023, for the financial year 2022-23. Those who made incorrect claims in previous years were encouraged to amend their ITRs for the financial years 2020-21 and 2021-22 by 31st March, 2024.
The session also covered awareness about various provisions of Tax Deducted at Source (TDS), with Karamvir, Income Tax Officer, TDS, explaining sections like 192 (TDS on Salary), 194C (Payments to Contractors), 194H (Commission or Brokerage), and others. DDOs were urged to be cautious in granting deductions and ensure correct and timely filing of TDS returns.
In conclusion, M.P Singh urged attendees to refrain from fraudulent claims and pay taxes honestly. He cautioned that the department is vigilant and those making false claims may face penalties and imprisonment. Referring to recent prosecutions in Kerala, he emphasized the need for immediate action to revise ITRs and avoid the consequences of incorrect claims.
For guidance in revising ITRs, taxpayers were encouraged to approach Income Tax Offices within their jurisdiction. The department remains committed to creating awareness and encouraging taxpayers to comply with tax regulations.
Income Tax Dept J&K conducts ‘Mulaqat 2.0’ outreach prog
