Malda traders seek extension for Income Tax return filing
The Statesman | 26 October 2025
The Malda Merchants’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MMCCI) has urged Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman to extend the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (Audit) for the Assessment Year 2025-26.
In a letter addressed to the finance minister, MMCCI President Ujjal Saha cited several reasons for the request. He pointed out that parts of both south and north Bengal are currently facing flood situations, while heavy rains in north Bengal and the Northeast have caused landslides and water damage to homes.
Mr Saha also highlighted that October is packed with major religious festivals such as Durga Puja, Dussehra, Laxmi Puja, Dhanteras, Kali Puja, Diwali, Bhai Dooj, and Chhath Puja. Many days during this period have been declared as state holidays, leading to bank closures and delays in tax deposits by assessors.
Other issues cited include late availability of certain ITR forms and utilities on the e-filing portal and slow server performance in the last week of October, causing further delays in filing.
“Considering these challenges, and in the interest of supporting MSME entrepreneurs and traders, we request the government to direct the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to extend the filing deadline to 30th November 2025,” the letter stated.
The MMCCI emphasised that the extension would provide ample time for traders, businessmen, and MSME entrepreneurs to comply with audit requirements without undue hardship.
The Chamber sought the finance minister’s kind consideration, cooperation, and early action on the matter.