The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has announced a revision in compliance deadlines for public limited companies under the Companies Act, 2013, in response to industry demands for flexibility and better regulatory alignment. According to the latest notification, the due dates for key statutory filings such as annual returns (Form MGT-7), financial statements (Form AOC-4), and board resolutions (Form MGT-14) have been extended by 30 to 60 days, depending on the size and listing status of the company. This move is aimed at reducing last-minute compliance burdens and allowing companies adequate time to address audit observations, disclosures, and board meeting requirements.

In addition to extending filing timelines, the MCA has also introduced relaxations in penalties for delayed submissions during the revised window. Companies filing returns within the extended period will not be subject to the standard additional fees or penal consequences outlined under Sections 92 and 137 of the Act. However, this relaxation applies only for the current financial year and is intended as a one-time relief to support entities still coping with post-COVID economic adjustments and digital filing challenges. The MCA emphasized that habitual defaulters and companies with prior non-compliance records will not benefit from this waiver.

Industry experts have welcomed the decision, noting that the revised deadlines would enhance regulatory predictability and operational planning for public limited companies. The MCA has advised all stakeholders to utilize the extended window to ensure accurate filings, update compliance documentation, and align corporate disclosures with the latest regulatory expectations. Stakeholders are also encouraged to review the accompanying explanatory circulars and FAQs issued by the MCA to ensure full understanding of the eligibility and procedural guidelines.