A near-empty CBDT tackles arbitration cases, domestic tax issues

As the government battles a second wave of Covid infections at home — which is expected to further stress revenues — and arbitration cases abroad, the apex decision-making body for income tax is functioning with just two members besides the chairman.

Four vacancies in the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) have not been filled despite the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) clearing names in February, exposing administrative gaps. These names were shortlisted by the committee of secretaries in January.

The vacancies are learnt to be impacting the day-to-day functioning of the department, with even routine files pending with the Board, said