In tax systems, the most important part is compliance due dates. They bring uniformity, discipline, and timely revenue flow. Though there are situations where humans cannot control compliance. One of the situations is being faced in the State of Maharashtra.
Multiple districts in Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Thane, Bhiwandi, Palghar, and Raigad, have been affected for the past several days by rain and flooding. Transports, schools, and government offices have shut down on local authority orders, and the weather bureau has issued continuous Red and Yellow alerts for the region up to 23rd August 2025.
For the same concern, the last date for filing GSTR-3B for July 2025 falls on 20th August 2025. Issues are being encountered by thousands of taxpayers and professionals in fulfilling this compliance within the said time. Problems have been caused by Internet outages, the closure of offices, staff unable to travel, and a lack of accessibility to records. And there is no professional discipline that can overcome these issues.
MCTC is a professional organisation with 47 years of experience, representing over 1,350 members, including accountants, lawyers, and tax professionals. Its role is not just to pass along important information but also to advocate for taxpayers, especially during difficult times.
Recently, it took the initiative to reach out to Shri Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Finance, to request a short extension of the deadline to submit a specific tax form (GSTR-3B) in Maharashtra. It has been asked to move the deadline from August 20, 2025, to August 23, 2025, to provide more time for taxpayers to complete their filings.
It is just a humble request for fairness, not a relaxation demand. There must not be any penalty on the taxpayers, including interest and late fees, for the uncontrollable situations. The professionals and businesses who are encountering issues due to natural adversity will get relief if they are provided with an extension of 3 days.
In these types of situations, we firmly assume that the government always provides support. A responsive and empathetic approach in governance will be shown if the government grants the same extension.
As President of MCTC, I sincerely trust that our request will receive favourable consideration.
Let us hope for prompt relief, so that taxpayers can focus on rebuilding their work amidst these challenging weather conditions without the additional stress of non-compliance.
Read the Official Copy:
