Ahmedabad, July 26, 2026 Amid severe monsoon disruptions across Gujarat, the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has urged the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to grant at least a 15-day extension for filing non-audit income tax returns (ITR-1 and ITR-2) beyond the July 31 deadline for Assessment Year 2026-27.
The chamber’s representation, submitted on behalf of taxpayers, tax professionals, traders, and industry stakeholders, highlights how unprecedented rainfall, flash floods, and widespread waterlogging have paralysed normal life and business operations across the state. Ahmedabad recorded a staggering 294.6 mm of rain within 24 hours on July 23, one of its heaviest single-day downpours, triggering mass evacuations and the deployment of Army, NDRF, and SDRF teams in multiple districts including Navsari, Valsad, and Vapi.
GCCI pointed out that prolonged power outages and weak internet connectivity have severely hampered tax compliance, particularly in Tier-2, Tier-3 cities, and rural areas. Many offices remain inaccessible, and taxpayers struggle to reconcile data from Form 26AS, AIS, and TIS. Recurring technical glitches on the income tax e-filing portal such as system timeouts, slow loading, and data mismatches have further compounded the difficulties.
While filers of ITR-3 and ITR-4 already enjoy an August 31 deadline, individual taxpayers and professionals facing the July 31 cut-off need urgent relief, the chamber stressed. CA Jainik Vakil, chairperson of GCCI’s Direct Tax Committee, noted that an early announcement of the extension is essential to restore lost working days and ensure accurate, stress-free compliance rather than rushed filings.
Similar demands have been raised during past natural disasters. However, no nationwide or state-specific extension has been announced so far. Taxpayers are advised to file by July 31 wherever possible, as missing the deadline can attract late fees, interest, and restrictions on carrying forward losses. CBDT’s decision is awaited as flood-affected residents continue recovery efforts.
ALSO READ: Assam Floods Leave Trail Of Destruction As Death Toll Rises To 65, Over 7.05 Lakh People Affected