I-T department’s scrutiny to turn faceless with e-proceeding facility

In the latest direction issued by the CBDT (Central Board of Direct Taxes), the process of IT scrutiny faced by the Individuals has been made entirely faceless and all the dealings would now happen through an e-proceeding facility. This has come as a big relief to all the individuals facing IT scrutiny. CBDT has further stated that this direction will not apply to search related assessments. This step would surely lead to effectiveness and efficiency as there would be no person to person contact and therefore there would be absolute transparency in the scrutiny. This step would also keep a check on corruption in the Income Tax Department. This step came after the finance minister, Mr. Arun Jaitley in his speech during the budget announced that the IT assessment would be made more transparent and an electronic faceless system would be introduced for the same. With effect from 1^st June 2016, the Finance Act, 2016 had provided that “ hearing” includes communication of data and documents through electronic mode. As per the latest communication, the scrutiny of the assessee under the Income Tax Act would happen only through the e-proceeding. However, certain relaxation has been provided to places/stations where the e-services are inadequate until March 31, 2018. Further, all notices, orders, communications issued to the assessee are to be issued only in electronic form and the same must be digitally signed by the appropriate officer.