May 2025 Legislation Update: ITR deadline extended; Prosecution team announced for 26/11 Trial

As we conclude the month of May 2025, it is crucial to highlight the significant legislative advancements that have transpired in recent weeks. This Legislation Roundup for May 2025 encapsulates key updates, such as the extended deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR), the appointment of a prosecution team for the much-anticipated 26/11 trial, and the enhancement of regulations governing foreign contributions to bolster transparency and adherence to guidelines. Delve into the detailed overview below to grasp the implications of these pivotal legislative modifications for individuals and organizations.

**HIGHLIGHT OF THE MONTH**
**ITR Filing Deadline Extended! CBDT Pushes Due Date to 15th September 2025**
On 27th May 2025, the Central Board of Direct Taxes announced the extension of the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns for the Assessment Year 2025-26 to 15th September 2025. This extension aims to address the concerns expressed by stakeholders and allow ample time for compliance, thereby ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the filing process.

**STATUTES/ BILLS/ ORDINANCES**
**President Questions SC on Setting Timelines on Governor and President’s Powers Under Articles 200 & 201 for Bill Assent**
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling in State of T.N. v. Governor of T.N., 2025, the President of India invoked Article 143(1) of the Constitution to submit inquiries to the Supreme Court regarding the imposition of time limits for exercising powers under Article 200.

**MINISTRY OF LAW**
**Centre Appoints SG Tushar Mehta Led Prosecution Team in 26/11 Trial**
The Central Government designated a Special Public Prosecutors team spearheaded by Tushar Mehta, Solicitor General of India, to oversee the proceedings of the 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack case. The team comprises eminent legal professionals tasked with managing the trial and related matters.

**MINISTRY OF FINANCE**
**New Broker Investment Regulations Notified via Securities Contracts (Regulation) Amendment Rules, 2025**
On 19th May 2025, the Ministry of Finance introduced amendments to the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Rules, 1957, to enhance regulatory clarity regarding broker operations and investment schemes, thereby facilitating a conducive environment for conducting business.

**MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS**
**Government Streamlines Framework for Receiving Foreign Contributions via FCR Amendment Rules, 2025**
By enacting the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Rules, 2025 on 26th May 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs established a more robust regulatory framework governing the receipt of foreign contributions, aimed at fortifying compliance measures and enhancing transparency.

**MINISTRY OF COAL**
**Mineral Concession (Amendment) Rules, 2025 Notified: Key Takeaways**
The Ministry of Coal implemented the Mineral Concession (Amendment) Rules, 2025 on 20th May 2025 to streamline mining operations through provisions enabling boundary extensions, increased production levels, and technological adaptations, thus modernizing the industry.

**DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS**
**DoT Notifies New Telecom Standards & Certification Rules**
The Ministry of Communications officially released the Telecommunications (Framework to Notify Standards, Conformity Assessment, and Certification) Rules, 2025 on 16th April 2025, outlining a regulatory framework to ensure that telecom equipment adheres to safety, security, and performance standards.

**BAR COUNCIL OF INDIA (BCI)**
**Key Takeaways from BCI’s Revised Rules for Registration and Regulation of Foreign Lawyers or Foreign Law Firms in India**
The Bar Council of India unveiled new regulations on 13th May 2025 governing the registration and operation of foreign lawyers and law firms in India, facilitating their practice in areas of foreign and international law under a regulated framework based on reciprocity.

**INSOLVENCY & BANKRUPTCY BOARD OF INDIA (IBBI)**
**IBBI Introduces Non-Submissions of Repayment Plan Strengthening Insolvency Resolution Process**
Through the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Insolvency Resolution Process for Personal Guarantors to Corporate Debtors) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 enacted on 19th May 2025, IBBI refined provisions relating to the insolvency resolution process to bolster its efficacy.

**IBBI Tightens Insolvency Rules: Key Changes to Strengthen Creditor Rights and Transparency**
On 26th May 2025, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India introduced the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Insolvency Resolution Process for Corporate Persons) (4th Amendment) Regulations, 2025 to enhance transparency, fortify creditor protections, and streamline the insolvency resolution process.

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE BOARD OF INDIA**
**SEBI Extends Compliance Timeline—ODI