The Central Board of Direct Taxes has issued order under proviso to Section 144B(5) of the Income Tax Act specifying the circumstances for purposes of enquiries or verification functions.
For the purpose of enquiry or verification functions referred to in Section 144B(3)(iii) by the Verification Unit:
(i) Non-availability of digital footprint in respect of the assessee or any other person,
(ii) Electronic or Online verification is not possible on account of no response to notice issued to the assessee or any other person,
(iii) Physical verification of assets or premises or persons is required, regardless of the presence of digital footprint; The order comes into force with immediate effect.
Section 144B in the Income Tax Act,1961 has been introduced in the Income Tax Act by National e-Assessment Scheme. The ambitious scheme launched in August 2020 seeks to bring the much-needed reform revolution to the income tax procedure that encumbered tax filing for the common man, fostered corruption, and aided tax evasion.