New Income Tax Bill Allows Digital and Social Media Account Checks Only During Raids

New Delhi, March 10 – Under the proposed new Income Tax Bill, tax authorities will only be allowed to access digital records and computer devices during raids, according to a top official from the Income Tax Department. The provision aims to ensure that taxpayers' online privacy remains intact and is not violated under normal circumstances.

As per agency report, the official clarified that even if a taxpayer is under investigation, their digital privacy will be maintained. Addressing concerns raised by some media reports and experts, he dismissed claims that tax officials were being given additional powers to access emails, social media accounts, and cloud storage.

The official emphasized that such powers already existed under the Income Tax Act of 1961 and are merely being reiterated in the new 2025 tax bill. He called the reports suggesting expanded surveillance on taxpayers' digital activities as misleading and fear-inducing.

The official further explained that even during raids, access to digital storage, emails, cloud services, and messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram would only be sought if the taxpayer refuses to disclose passwords or necessary information. The Income Tax Bill 2025 is currently under parliamentary review.