In a significant directive, the Supreme Court has ordered the Income Tax Department to take immediate steps to upgrade its computer software. This decision comes after a series of technological errors led to incorrect assessments, causing undue harassment to taxpayers.
Background of the Issue
The Supreme Court's intervention was prompted by repeated complaints from taxpayers who faced incorrect assessments due to software glitches. The court emphasized that technological impediments cannot be a valid reason for harassing taxpayers year after year.
Court's Directive
The Supreme Court has explicitly instructed the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to resolve the software issues promptly. The court's directive underscores the need for the IT Department to ensure that its systems are robust and free from errors that could lead to incorrect assessments.
Impact on Taxpayers
This move is expected to bring relief to taxpayers who have been facing unnecessary hardships due to technological failures. The upgrade will help in streamlining the assessment process, reducing errors, and enhancing the overall efficiency of the tax administration.
Broader Implications
The Supreme Court's order highlights the importance of investing in modern and reliable technology in government departments. It sets a precedent for other government agencies to prioritize technological upgrades to improve service delivery and reduce errors.
