Tuesday, December 23, 2025
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Extended ITR Deadline for Audit-Compliant Taxpayers Set for…

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) extended the deadline for Income Tax Return (ITR) filing to November 15, 2024. This extension applies to taxpayers who require an income tax audit, offering more time to file without the rush of the festive season.

The extension specifically applies to taxpayers under Section 139(1) of the Income-tax Act, including corporations, firms, and those subject to various audits. These taxpayers must submit a tax audit report before filing their ITR.

Transfer pricing taxpayers with international or specific domestic transactions have different requirements. They must file the transfer pricing audit report by October 31, 2024, while their ITR deadline is November 30, 2024.

Missing the November 15 deadline may result in penalties under Sections 234F, 234A, and 234B. Penalties range from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000, depending on income, and interest charges may apply.

This extension provides flexibility for corporate and individual taxpayers, allowing them to focus on compliance during the festive season. However, further extensions are unlikely, as the government aims to maintain compliance timelines.

Tax professionals note the importance of filing on time to avoid financial consequences and potential regulatory penalties. Timely compliance ensures taxpayers avoid losing the ability to carry forward losses from the 2023-24 assessment year.

BJP Eyes Two-Thirds Majority in Jharkhand: Chouhan Pushes for NRC Amid Concerns of Infiltration

JHARKHAND: As Jharkhand gears up for assembly elections, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the BJP’s election in-charge for the state, has expressed confidence in the party’s potential to secure a decisive two-thirds majority. The BJP’s campaign centers around the National Register of Citizens (NRC), aimed at addressing issues related to alleged illegal Bangladeshi immigration, a key focal point in the region’s tribal-dominated Santhal area.

Focus on NRC and Tribal Concerns
Chouhan has consistently underscored the BJP’s commitment to safeguarding Jharkhand’s tribal identity. The party’s agenda includes implementing the NRC to identify and expel what Chouhan describes as “infiltrators,” who he claims have adversely impacted the tribal population in Jharkhand. According to Chouhan, these demographic shifts, allegedly encouraged by the current government led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, have led to land encroachment and impacted the tribal community’s social fabric.

BJP’s Criticism of the JMM-Congress-RJD Alliance
In a recent statement, Chouhan accused the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-Congress-Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) coalition of encouraging illegal immigration for political gain. He cited the issuance of official documents such as Aadhaar cards to immigrants as a move to boost vote banks, a charge the ruling coalition has refuted. According to BJP representatives, illegal immigration is an “existential threat” to local communities, especially the indigenous Santhal population.

Strategic Push for Cultural and Economic Renewal
Beyond demographic issues, BJP leaders, including Chouhan, have presented a vision for economic renewal, promising enhanced employment opportunities, education reforms, and rural development for Jharkhand. In contrast, the JMM-led coalition has advocated for regional autonomy, seeking protection of tribal rights and welfare programs designed to bolster local economic conditions.

Conclusion
As the electoral landscape of Jharkhand evolves, the BJP’s stance on NRC and tribal rights is poised to become a pivotal issue. The electorate’s response to these divisive themes will play a decisive role in shaping Jharkhand’s future political landscape, with polls expected to intensify in the coming weeks.

Chennai: Government Doctor Stabbed by Patient’s Son at Kalaignar Centenary Hospital

In a shocking incident on Wednesday, Dr. Balaji Jaganathan, a government doctor, was stabbed seven times by the son of a patient at Kalaignar Centenary Hospital in Chennai. The attack took place while Dr. Balaji was working in the hospital’s cancer ward, where the accused’s mother was undergoing treatment. Dr. Balaji sustained injuries to his neck, ear, forehead, back, and stomach and is currently receiving treatment in the ICU.

The accused, identified as Vignesh, reportedly attacked the doctor due to dissatisfaction with the treatment his mother had been receiving. Vignesh’s mother, who had previously undergone chemotherapy at the hospital, was allegedly not receiving the proper care she expected, leading to the violent outburst. After the attack, Vignesh attempted to flee the scene but was swiftly caught and handed over to the police.

In response to this brutal assault, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his concern and directed officials to conduct a thorough investigation. In a statement on social media, he acknowledged the invaluable contributions of government doctors and emphasized the importance of ensuring their safety. “The government will take all measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” he added.

State Health Minister Ma Subramanian also assured that prompt action would be taken. BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan condemned the attack, calling attention to the insecurity faced by doctors in Tamil Nadu’s government hospitals. She further stated that while doctors treat patients selflessly, the rising threats against them were a matter of grave concern. “The Tamil Nadu government should ensure the safety of doctors,” she said.

As investigations continue, the incident has sparked widespread concern about the safety of medical professionals working in public hospitals, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures for healthcare workers.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)

Shiv Sena Factions Lock Horns Over Cash Distribution Allegations in Jogeshwari East Amid Maharashtra Polls

The Jogeshwari East constituency in Mumbai has become a focal point in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly Elections as two rival factions of the Shiv Sena—Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Shinde faction of Shiv Sena—accuse each other of election-related cash distribution. Shiv Sena (UBT), led by Uddhav Thackeray, has openly alleged that MP Ravindra Waikar’s camp, aligned with the Shinde faction, is using the Matoshree Club on the Jogeshwari Vikhroli Link Road to influence voters with cash distribution. This club, reportedly under Waikar’s control, is at the center of controversy, with Manisha Waikar, Waikar’s wife, running as the Shiv Sena candidate from Jogeshwari East.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anil Parab stated that his faction filed complaints with authorities, requesting an investigation into the alleged cash distributions at Matoshree Club, but claimed no action was taken. When UBT members approached the venue to question these activities, clashes erupted with supporters from the Shinde faction, who reportedly responded with stones and sticks. The altercation escalated as police arrived and conducted lathi charges that injured several UBT members. Parab announced plans to escalate the issue by consulting the Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra, urging action against these alleged cash distribution tactics.

In response, Ravindra Waikar refuted the allegations, asserting instead that UBT members harassed women at the club and behaved aggressively under the influence of alcohol during the confrontation.

Additionally, Waikar accused a UBT member of issuing threats against him, including a warning to “cut his tongue” if he continued to criticize the UBT faction. This war of words comes as both factions aim to secure a stronghold in Mumbai’s Marathi-dominated regions, where the split has drawn sharp political and social divides.

The Jogeshwari East constituency is one of several key battlegrounds in the city, reflecting the broader “Sena versus Sena” struggle that will shape the election outcome across Maharashtra. As the campaign intensifies, these accusations underscore the fierce rivalry and the high stakes associated with the elections.

Supreme Court to Ajit Pawar’s NCP: Avoid Using Sharad Pawar’s Name and Image in Campaigns

In a decisive ruling, the Supreme Court directed the faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to stop using Sharad Pawar’s name, photos, and the “clock” symbol in their campaign material for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. This measure is meant to prevent confusion among voters as the two factions vie for political influence. The court emphasized that the Ajit Pawar-led faction should rely solely on its distinct identity and avoid referencing NCP founder Sharad Pawar, reflecting their ideological split.

During the hearing, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Sharad Pawar’s NCP, argued that Ajit Pawar’s group has continued using Sharad Pawar’s legacy to bolster its campaign, violating prior court instructions. The justices advised that if Ajit Pawar’s faction truly wishes to stand independently, they should prevent their members from using the veteran leader’s image in campaign promotions.

The court also suggested that Ajit Pawar’s faction adopt a new election symbol to clearly differentiate between the two entities. Ajit Pawar’s side, however, argued the difficulty in monitoring campaign materials shared by local supporters across digital and physical platforms. Despite this, the court urged Ajit Pawar’s NCP to actively uphold the separation, scheduling the next hearing on November 19, a day before the Maharashtra elections

Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies Renamed Lost Ladies for Oscar Campaign: New Poster Revealed

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Kiran Rao’s critically acclaimed film Laapataa Ladies has officially kicked off its Academy Award campaign, with a fresh new title and an eye-catching poster. The film, now rebranded as Lost Ladies, is India’s official entry for the 2025 Oscar. A vibrant, quirky new poster was unveiled on the film’s official Instagram page on Tuesday, sparking excitement among fans and movie lovers alike. The poster features the main characters in bold colors, accompanied by the tagline: “Sometimes you have to lose your way to find yourself.”

Along with the poster reveal, the team shared a message celebrating the film’s international debut, saying, “Presenting the official poster for Lost Ladies—a glimpse into the wild, heartfelt journey of Phool and Jaya!” The post further thanked designers Jahan Singh Bakshi and Prashanth C for their contribution to the visual design, promising audiences an emotional roller-coaster of a story.

Fans have responded enthusiastically to the announcement, with many expressing their hopes for an Oscar win. One user wrote, “Great narration and direction. Kudos to Aamir and the team,” while another simply commented, “Get us the Oscars!”

Originally released on March 1, 2024, Laapataa Ladies made its world premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Set in rural India in the year 2001, the film follows the journey of two brides who are mistakenly swapped during a train journey. Their husbands then embark on a quest to find their rightful brides, leading to a series of twists and poignant discoveries.

The film, exploring gender dynamics and patriarchy in rural India, stars Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Ravi Kishan, Chhaya Kadam, and Geeta Aggarwal Sharma. Directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan Productions, Kindling Pictures, and Jio Studios, Laapataa Ladies is a sharp yet gentle satire.

With its blend of humor and social commentary, Laapataa Ladies is making waves not only for its compelling story but also for its potential on the global stage, with fans and critics alike rooting for its Oscar success.

As the countdown to the 97th Academy Awards begins, excitement continues to build around this remarkable film’s international journey.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)

Election Campaign Merchandise Retailers Struggle as Political Parties Shift to Bulk Wholesale Purchasing

MUMBAI: The retail market for election campaign materials in Maharashtra is facing a downturn, with several long-established stores seeing a sharp decline in business. This shift comes as political parties are increasingly turning to wholesalers in Surat and Ahmedabad for bulk procurement of election supplies, bypassing local retailers in the process.

For years, retailers like Parekh Brothers in Mumbai’s Lalbaug area have been a go-to source for campaign materials such as flags, posters, and banners. However, the rise of direct bulk purchases by political parties—who now place their orders well ahead of elections—has severely impacted these local businesses.

“Political parties are now buying campaign materials in large quantities from wholesalers in Gujarat. They then distribute these supplies directly to their candidates, reducing the need for retail outlets like ours,” said Yogesh Parekh, a local shop owner. As a result, many small-scale retailers are grappling with declining sales and tighter profit margins, with fewer customers visiting stores for election materials.

This shift is reflective of broader changes in procurement strategies, as political organizations streamline their supply chains and focus on cost-effective, large-scale purchasing. For local retailers, the transition presents a significant challenge, forcing them to rethink their business models in an increasingly competitive environment.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy Appointed to Lead New ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Under Trump

In a major move for his upcoming administration, President-elect Donald Trump has named billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk and Republican entrepreneur-turned-politician Vivek Ramaswamy to head the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The department’s primary mission will be to streamline the federal government by reducing bureaucracy, eliminating wasteful spending, and cutting unnecessary regulations.

Trump, who is finalizing key positions for his administration ahead of his January 2025 inauguration, expressed strong confidence in Musk and Ramaswamy’s abilities to reform the U.S. government. In a statement released on Tuesday, he described the department as a critical component of his “Save America” agenda. “Together, these two incredible leaders will drive meaningful change by slashing waste, cutting red tape, and restructuring federal agencies,” Trump said.

Both Musk and Ramaswamy have long been advocates of reducing government inefficiency. Musk, known for his leadership of SpaceX and Tesla, emphasized that their work would “send shockwaves” through Washington, particularly among those benefiting from government waste. “This is a monumental task, but we’re ready to take it on,” Musk said.

Musk has tapped Ramaswamy, who previously ran for president and is an outspoken critic of corporate America’s influence in politics, to spearhead this initiative.“This is the ‘Manhattan Project’ of government reform,” Trump said, drawing a parallel to the U.S. effort that led to the development of the atomic bomb. “We will overhaul the bloated, wasteful spending that has become endemic in our $6.5 trillion federal budget.”

Following the announcement, Ramaswamy, who had been under consideration for a Senate seat in Ohio, confirmed on social media that he would be stepping back from those plans in order to focus on his new role. “I’m excited to take on this critical mission to make our government more efficient and accountable to the American people,” he posted.

One of the bold goals of DOGE is to identify and eliminate billions of dollars in inefficiency within the federal budget, with Musk previously stating he could cut at least $2 trillion in federal expenditures. While that ambitious target would likely necessitate reductions in popular entitlement programs such as Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits, Musk has argued that such reforms are necessary to prevent fiscal collapse.

Musk and Ramaswamy are poised to bring a tech-driven, business-oriented approach to Washington, and their appointments signal a major shift toward privatization and efficiency in the federal government. Trump is expected to make the Department of Government Efficiency a centerpiece of his presidency as he seeks to reshape the federal landscape.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)

Supreme Court Issues Strong Guidelines Against “Bulldozer Justice,” Emphasizing Rule of Law

The Supreme Court of India has issued a stern rebuke against the practice of “bulldozer justice,” where authorities demolish properties of individuals merely based on accusations, without due process of law.

In a recent ruling, the apex court emphasized that demolishing a person’s property solely on the basis of a criminal accusation undermines the essence of the rule of law.

The bench, comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan, stated that the executive branch must not assume the role of the judiciary. The court reaffirmed that only a judicial process, including a fair trial, can establish guilt, and property must not be destroyed without a legitimate legal order.

“It is not a happy sight to see women, children, and ailing persons dragged onto the streets overnight,” the court observed, criticizing the emotional and physical toll these demolitions take on vulnerable individuals. The bench also stated that authorities should not rush into such actions, stressing that taking time before carrying out demolitions would not bring about any irreversible consequences.

In addition to the rebuke, the court issued a set of guidelines to regulate such demolitions. These include:

1. Notice Period: Authorities must provide proper notice to property owners before carrying out any demolition. This notice should give the owner a chance to contest the decision or vacate the premises. However, this rule will not apply if the property is obstructing essential infrastructure such as roads, water passages, or railway lines.

2. Issue a mandatory show cause notice before any demolition. Publicly display this notice at the property, and allow the recipient at least 15 days to respond or contest the demolition order.

3. Digitally document each notice to prevent tampering or falsification. Once served, email a copy of the notice to the office of the local Collector or District Magistrate, and ensure an auto-generated acknowledgment of receipt is issued.

 

4. Provide the property owner or occupant with an opportunity for a personal hearing before taking any demolition action. Document the hearing proceedings, and ensure the final decision justifies why demolition is the only option.

5. Demolition Only for Unauthorized Structures: Demolitions should be restricted only to the part of the property that is constructed illegally. Authorities must also prepare a detailed report on the illegal construction before proceeding.

6. Videograph and document the entire demolition process to ensure transparency and accountability.

7. Liability for Violations: Authorities responsible for any demolition that violates these guidelines will be personally accountable and required to restore the property at their own expense.

The Supreme Court’s intervention comes amid growing concerns over the use of bulldozers to demolish properties of individuals accused of crimes, often without following due legal procedures. This ruling seeks to reaffirm the importance of following legal protocols and safeguarding the rights of individuals, especially those who may be vulnerable or unable to contest such actions immediately.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)

Delhi Overtakes Lahore as World’s Most Polluted City Amid Hazardous Air Quality

Delhi has surpassed Lahore, Pakistan, as the world’s most polluted city, with air quality reaching hazardous levels on Wednesday. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi crossed 1,000—well into the “hazardous” range—due to thick smog that enveloped the city, reducing visibility to near-zero and severely affecting residents’ health.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI readings in areas like Anand Vihar and Aya Nagar reached alarming levels of 413 and 428, while Swiss air quality monitor IQAir recorded AQI values as high as 991 in some locations. This persistent pollution is causing serious respiratory issues, with vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly at heightened risk.

The ongoing smog, worsened by cooler temperatures, has led to disruptions at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, where low visibility procedures have been put in place. The city has now experienced 15 consecutive days of “very poor” air quality, highlighting the urgency of addressing the pollution crisis.

The major contributors to the pollution include vehicular emissions and crop-burning in neighboring states, although specific data on farm fires was not immediately available. With pollution levels unlikely to improve soon, experts are calling for immediate action to reduce emissions and mitigate the growing health risks.

(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)