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Punjab extends OTS deadline to May 31 as participation remains moderate

#Law & Policy#India#Punjab
Last Updated : 8th Apr, 2026
Synopsis

The Punjab government has extended the One Time Settlement (OTS) scheme deadline to May 31, 2026, giving taxpayers more time to clear pending dues. The scheme has received over 9,100 applications so far, generating INR 134.21 crore, while waivers of INR 446.17 crore have been granted. The move aims to improve participation and resolve legacy tax disputes. Around 8,000 defaulter properties have also been identified for possible auction if dues are not cleared within the extended timeline, indicating stricter enforcement after the deadline.

The Punjab government has extended the deadline for its One Time Settlement (OTS) scheme for recovery of pending tax dues, giving taxpayers time until May 31, 2026, to apply. The scheme was earlier set to close at the end of March, but the extension has been provided to allow more eligible applicants to benefit from it and complete their settlements.


State Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated that the extension is meant to provide a final opportunity for taxpayers to clear outstanding dues under the scheme. He indicated that the taxation department has already seen a steady response but expects higher participation during the extended period. He also conveyed that those who do not use this window may face legal recovery action.

As per official data, around 9,151 applications have been received so far under the scheme. These have resulted in revenue collection of INR 134.21 crore for the state. At the same time, the government has granted waivers worth INR 446.17 crore, helping businesses and individuals settle long-pending disputes at reduced financial burden.

The government has also identified nearly 8,000 properties linked to tax defaulters across the state. These properties may be taken up for auction if dues are not cleared within the revised deadline. This step is part of a broader effort to improve compliance and ensure recovery of pending taxes.

Officials highlighted that earlier versions of the scheme had varied responses. OTS-2, implemented in FY 2022-23, saw 2,487 applications, while OTS-3 in FY 2023-24 recorded disposal of nearly 70,000 cases. Compared to this, the current scheme still has a large number of eligible taxpayers who have not yet applied, which led to the decision to extend the deadline.

The scheme mainly covers pre-GST tax disputes, including value added tax and central sales tax dues. It was introduced to reduce litigation, resolve legacy cases, and improve ease of doing business in the state. Feedback from trade bodies and stakeholders also played a role in the government's decision to allow more time.

Authorities have clarified that this extension is likely to be the final one. After May 31, 2026, strict recovery measures, including attachment and auction of properties, are expected to be initiated against defaulters who fail to settle their dues.

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