Kerala Tax Authority Cancels Eid Leave for Officers

The Chief Commissioner of Central Tax, Central Excise and Customs in Thiruvananthapuram has issued an order denying leave to all officers and staff in Kerala during Eid-al-Fitr on March 29, 30, and 31. The directive instructs supervisory officers not to grant leave or permission to officers on these dates, affecting even Muslim employees who traditionally observe the festival with their families.

This move aligns with a nationwide initiative by the Income Tax Department to keep offices open during the same period, which includes a weekend and the potential observance of Eid-al-Fitr on Monday. The Central Board of Direct Taxes has mandated that all Income Tax Offices across India remain operational on March 29, 30, and 31 to facilitate the completion of pending departmental work before the fiscal year ends on March 31. This period is critical for finalizing government payments and settlements, as well as for taxpayers to file updated Income Tax Returns for the Assessment Year 2023-24.

The Reserve Bank of India has issued a similar directive, instructing banks involved in government business to remain open on March 31 to assist taxpayers. Special clearing operations have been arranged to ensure that government receipts and payments are accounted for within the current financial year. Open URL