Modi Government's Tax Appeal Priorities.!
The Income Tax Department has introduced a new guideline, effective march 7, issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), aimed at expediting the hearing of appeals against tax demands. This guideline replaces the mechanism implemented in 2021 and outlines a framework for prioritizing the disposal of pending appeals.
However, the introduction of these guidelines has sparked controversy, with opposition parties criticizing the Modi government for allegedly promoting VIP culture. TMC rajya sabha MP Saket Gokhale accused the government of prioritizing VIP cases while ordinary taxpayers wait for months to receive their tax refunds.
Tax experts have also expressed surprise and concern over the preferential treatment outlined in the Income Tax Department's guidelines and the reference system involving the Prime Minister's Office. This move raises questions about fairness and equal treatment under the tax system, as well as the potential for misuse of influence in expediting tax appeals.
However, the introduction of these guidelines has sparked controversy, with opposition parties criticizing the Modi government for allegedly promoting VIP culture. TMC rajya sabha MP Saket Gokhale accused the government of prioritizing VIP cases while ordinary taxpayers wait for months to receive their tax refunds.
Tax experts have also expressed surprise and concern over the preferential treatment outlined in the Income Tax Department's guidelines and the reference system involving the Prime Minister's Office. This move raises questions about fairness and equal treatment under the tax system, as well as the potential for misuse of influence in expediting tax appeals.