New Provision
Section 481, IT Act 2025
Replaces (IT Act 1961)
276D
Chapter
Chapter XXI — Offences and Prosecutions
Effective From
1 April 2026
Statutory Text — Section 481
a person wilfully fails to produce, or cause to be produced, the accounts and documents as are referred to in the notice served on him under section 268(1) on or before the date specified in such notice, or wilfully fails to comply with a direction issued to him under section 268(5), he shall be punishable with rigorous imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year and with fine.
Shahi & Co. — Our Understanding
This section is part of Chapter XXI of the Income Tax Act, 2025, effective from 1 April 2026. It carries forward the corresponding provision from the Income Tax Act, 1961 with simplified language and restructured drafting.
Practical Note: For specific guidance on how this provision applies to your situation, consult a qualified Chartered Accountant. The Income Tax Act, 2025 retains the substance of the old law while making it more accessible.
Shahi & Co., Chartered Accountants
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Disclaimer: This is a reproduction of Section 481 of the Income Tax Act, 2025 (No. 30 of 2025) as published in the Official Gazette of India (CG-DL-E-22082025-265620) for informational and reference purposes only. Shahi & Co., Chartered Accountants makes no warranty as to completeness or accuracy. For the official authenticated text refer to
egazette.gov.in or
incometaxindia.gov.in. This does not constitute legal or tax advice.