ITR
Prosecution for non-filing under the Income-tax Act 2025
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Facts
Yes. Wilful failure to file a return is covered by Sec 479 of the Income-tax Act 2025 for tax year 2026-27 onwards. Defaults for FY 2025-26 and earlier are dealt with under Sec 276CC of the 1961 Act. Filing on time remains the simplest protection.
Provisions and law
- Sec 479, Income-tax Act 2025 (old Sec 276CC)Prosecution for wilful failure to file a return on time; jail of 3 months to 2 years, or 6 months to 7 years where tax evaded exceeds ₹25 lakh
Analysis
The mapping links old Sec 276CC to Sec 479 of the 2025 Act with medium confidence, so check the exact wording, including any small tax exception, when a notice arrives. Old years remain under the 1961 Act as the e-Filing FAQ on the new Act explains. Keep filing even when tax is nil or covered by TDS, because a return on record removes this risk. If a return is late, file it as soon as possible.
Conclusion
- File every year's return by the due date.
- For any missed year, file belated or updated returns quickly.
- Check the section and Act on any notice.
- Keep acknowledgements safe.
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Prosecution for non-filing, Sec 276CC (now 479)
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