Muradabad: The Income Tax Department in the Muradabad zone has launched a large-scale enforcement operation to recover pending taxes accumulated over the past five years. Additional Commissioner Jitendra Kumar Sonkar stated that the total pending income tax in the zone currently amounts to approximately ₹27 billion. To recover this outstanding amount, authorities have seized 2,500 bank accounts, and the drive will continue until March 31, allowing the department to assess the actual tax dues after the close of the financial year.
Bank Accounts Seized After Non-Compliance
According to sources, bank accounts were seized after taxpayers failed to pay the legally prescribed amount despite receiving notices. Accounts with sufficient balances enabled the department to recover dues, while some accounts had insufficient funds, preventing full recovery. These cases will be pursued further in accordance with legal provisions.
Commissioner Sonkar explained that the action aims to curb large-scale tax evasion and ensure timely collection of dues. In addition to account seizures, the department also retrieved pending amounts through cheque settlements wherever possible.
Businesses and Entrepreneurs Among Major Defaulters
Officials noted that a significant number of the defaulters are business owners and entrepreneurs. Many of them had either failed to deposit the required tax entirely or made only partial payments, ignoring legal consequences. The department has taken a firm stance against such defaulters.
During the operation, authorities thoroughly reviewed bank records and financial transactions. The investigation revealed that several defaulters deliberately avoided compliance, even when sufficient funds were available in their accounts. The department has clarified that account seizures are only the initial step, and further measures—including property attachment and additional legal action—will follow as per the law.
Experts observe that in cases of substantial tax arrears, seizing bank accounts is a critical enforcement tool. It not only helps the department recover outstanding revenue but also ensures financial discipline among taxpayers. The move also raises awareness about tax compliance across the zone.
Further Legal Action May Follow
Official sources emphasized that the pending tax liability in Muradabad has grown continuously over the last five years. Authorities have warned that continuous monitoring of all defaulters’ accounts will be maintained in the coming months. Non-compliant individuals will face stringent legal action under applicable tax laws.
The campaign sends a clear message to taxpayers and businesses that the Income Tax Department will not tolerate delayed or avoided payments. Experts say the drive is crucial not only for revenue recovery but also to promote transparency and financial accountability, and to prevent large-scale tax evasion. The department has urged the public to report any suspicious or pending tax-related cases to their nearest Income Tax office. Officials stressed that all taxpayers are legally obliged to deposit due taxes to avoid complications or legal entanglements in the future.
