Tax offices to display CBI contact numbers to check corruption

NEW DELHI: In a bid to check corruption in the income tax department, all tax offices will now prominently display numbers where the CBI can be reached in case anyone asks for a bribe.

The Central Board of Direct Taxes ( CBDT) has ordered all tax offices to install a display board asking people to contact CBI in case of any demand for bribe.

"All the Chief Commissioners of Income Tax (CCITs)/ Principal Director General of Income Tax (DGITs) are requested to ensure that such a display board is placed along with details of the concerned Anti-corruption Branch of the CBI in each of the offices under their jurisdiction within a period of 30 days from the date of receipt of this communication," the CBDT order said.

The move is in line with the government's plans to end harassment of tax payers in tax offices and root out corruption. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier this year sought strict action against officers who do not redress public grievances or are corrupt.

The order issued yesterday asked for a compliance report by October 31 indicating the number of offices where such display boards have been installed.

The CBDT said the move follows CBI Director's September 5 letter seeking a message in Hindi/local language and English asking people to contact CBI in case of any demand for bribe, may be painted at prominent places.

Since coming to power in May 2014, the NDA government has tried to reset the interface with the taxpayer. It has taken steps to reduce litigation, minimise human interface and simplify tax laws. And the latest move is seen as continuation of that series.