No extension of time-limit under Sec. 54F in absence of genuine hardship: HC

Facts:

a) The assessee filed application before the CBDT for extension of time-limit to complete construction of house property for availing of Section 54F relief. The CBDT rejected the said application on the ground that the assessee had failed to demonstrate compliance of Section 119.

b) The aggrieved-assessee filed the instant writ petition wherein he seeks quashing of such order of CBDT.

The High Court held as under:

1) As per Section 119(2)(c), on a genuine hardship shown by any assessee, the CBDT can order relaxation in any requirement contained in any of the provisions of Chapters IV or VI-A of the Income Tax Act. Such power is subject to two riders. Firstly, that the default in complying with such requirement was due to circumstances beyond the control of the assessee and secondly, that the assessee had already complied with such requirements before the completion of assessment in relation to the previous year in which such deduction is claimed.

2) The petitioner's case does not fall within either sub-clause (i) or (ii) of clause (c) of Section 119(2). Firstly, it cannot be said that the default in complying with the requirements of Section 54-F was due to circumstances beyond the petitioner's control 

3) The petitioner has not even complied with sub-clause (ii) of clause (c) of Section 119 (2). The extension can be granted only if an assessee has complied with the requirements necessary to avail the benefit under Section 54-F before completion of assessment in relation to the previous year in which such deduction is claimed. The petitioner had admittedly not fulfilled the condition even as on date.

4) Thus, there was no merit in the instant petition and same was ordered to be dismissed. - [2016] 74 taxmann.com 28 (Punjab & Haryana)