The last date for submission of Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the financial year 2024-25 (Assessment Year 2025-26) was recently extended by the Income Tax Department originally from the usual July 31 to 15th September followed by another day extension till September 16, 2025. The reason for this extension was mainly due to the technical modifications on the e-filing portal, which had experienced numerous glitches earlier in the season.
Record Number of Returns
According to official reports, more than 7.08 crore ITRs were filed successfully till September 15, breaking last year’s records. The e-verified returns were at 6 crore, which is an increase in taxpayer compliance and digital penetration. Yet, more than 1 crore returns were also pending along with numerous taxpayers fought with the technical glitches of the portal, particularly during the last-minute rush on the deadline extension day. The filing system needs to be smoothened up to avoid the chaos it does at every deadline. Credit also goes to the lethargic attitude of tax payers who waited last minute before filing their returns.
Invariable Portal Glitches and Public Outrage
In spite of the extension, the Income Tax e-filing portal saw slow page loading, frequent errors while uploading forms, and even submission page crashes, causing a general outrage, clearly visible all over the social media platforms. Taxpayers complained on social media, posting about their failure to make filings even after multiple tries. Tax professionals as well as activists demanded extensions due to accessibility issues and condemned the thin extension for only a day by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).
Why is it Important to File Your ITR Timely
ITR filing is not just a regulatory compliance; it is an important show of fiscal prudence and accountability. Timely filing prevents penalty of ₹5,000 under Section 234F if submitted late, and avails taxpayers of legal complications. Further, it provides a consistent documented proof of income, which is required for various financial transactions such as taking loans, visa, and government subsidies. Filing also enables persons to obtain refunds for any excess TDS deducted, to access rightful financial benefits without delay.
Promoting Fiscal Discipline among Taxpayers
One of the most pressing issues Indian taxpayers need to address is the tendency to file ITRs at the last minute, jamming the tax infrastructure and inviting unnecessary tension and errors. Fiscal discipline, portion of which also translates to premature filing of returns before deadlines, is essential in curbing system jamming and facilitating smooth processing. The Income Tax Department has been focusing on awareness campaigns to teach people the importance of timely filing for individual financial well-being and economic stability of the nation as well. With the growing digitalisation and the government initiative towards having a transparent economy, embracing timely filing practices is crucial for the financial future of the nation.
