Delay of 16 days in EPF deposit was allowable u/s 36(1)(va) as same was attributable due to COVID-19 Lockdown

Prolific HR Consultants (India) Ltd. Vs ADIT (CPC) (Karnataka High Court) Conclusion: Deduction under Section 36(1)(va) was allowable for a 16-day delay in depositing Employees’ Provident Fund by the assessee as delay was attributable due to the lockdown consequent upon the COVID-19 pandemic. Held: Assessee, filed its income tax return for AY 2021-22. It deposited the Employees’ Contribution to Provident Fund late on 01.06.2020, missing the 15.05.2020 deadline, and its deduction claim under Section 36(1)(va) was rejected. Employees’ Contribution to PF (due 15.05.2020) was deposited on 01...