In an unusual show of collective dissent, Chartered Accountants (CAs) are set to hold a peaceful demonstration at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) headquarters in ITO, New Delhi, today at 11 AM. The protest comes amid mounting frustration over repeated technical failures in the government’s income tax e-filing portal and the perceived lack of sufficient deadline extensions for statutory filings.
The protest has been endorsed by several leaders and practitioners from the CA community, who used social media to mobilize support. CA Himank Singla confirmed the schedule of the demonstration in a widely shared announcement on X, urging members from surrounding areas to participate in large numbers, highlighting the scale of concern within the profession.
Tax professionals have repeatedly flagged issues arising from portal downtime, compliance congestion, and delayed clarifications from authorities. Despite several appeals, extensions for submitting Tax Audit Reports (TARs) and Income Tax Returns (ITRs) are often late or inadequate, creating significant pressure, particularly during peak festive seasons.
The decision to protest at ICAI’s office has sparked debate within the community. Some members questioned why the demonstration was not directed at the Ministry of Finance, which is responsible for tax policies and deadlines. “Why at ICAI and not at the Ministry of Finance? Nevertheless, I will join,” said CA Arvind Sharma. Others criticized the Institute’s perceived silence, arguing that ICAI should actively represent the concerns of its members before government authorities.
Several practitioners highlighted a perceived inequity in treatment: while corporates automatically receive 45-day extensions for statutory filings, tax professionals often must appeal publicly for similar relief. “Such treatment is humiliating to the profession,” noted one CA, cautioning that compressed deadlines could compromise audit quality.
Organizers stress that the protest will be symbolic and entirely peaceful, aiming to draw attention to the growing compliance burden faced by CAs without adequate infrastructural support. The issue is also being framed as one of professional dignity, with many members expressing frustration at having to spend festive periods navigating portal glitches and deadline pressures instead of celebrating with family.
With strong mobilization across digital platforms, today’s protest at ICAI ITO is expected to serve as a measure of unity and resolve within the Chartered Accountancy fraternity.
