Tue Dec 23 03:12:47 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a news article rewrite:
Summary:
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) clarified that Income Tax officials are not authorized to access taxpayers’ social media or email data unless they are conducting a formal search operation.
News Article:
Income Tax Department Limited in Social Media and Email Access, PIB Clarifies
New Delhi: The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has issued a clarification regarding the powers of Income Tax officials to access private digital information. The PIB stated that Income Tax officials are not authorized to delve into taxpayers’ social media accounts or email communications unless a formal search operation, legally sanctioned and justified, is currently in progress.
This announcement aims to address potential public concerns about privacy and the extent of the Income Tax Department’s access to personal data. The statement emphasizes that routine access to social media and email accounts is not permitted.
The clarification comes amidst ongoing discussions about data privacy and the role of government agencies in accessing citizen information. This PIB statement seeks to assure taxpayers that their digital privacy is protected unless there is a legitimate and legally sound reason for the Income Tax Department to conduct a formal investigation.
First Piper 