Multiple outlets report that Indian taxpayers who miss the July 31 deadline for filing income tax returns face penalties under the Income Tax Act. Sources state that the penalty amount depends on whether the taxpayer files the return after the due date but continues filing within the allowed extended period. The reported penalty framework includes a lower flat amount (described as ₹1,000 in the coverage) for certain categories of late filers, while higher penalties are indicated for taxpayers whose returns are filed with later delay, including amounts referenced as ₹5,000 or more. The articles indicate that the deadline relates to filing ITRs for the relevant assessment year and that the penalty applies even when the return is filed after July 31 within the extended window prescribed by the tax department. The reports also note that the exact penalty depends on the taxpayer’s situation, including the date of filing and applicable provisions for different tax brackets and return types.