Assessment Order Void as Time-Barred Under Section 144C(13) When Issued Seven Months After DRP Directions

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....The ITAT held that the final assessment order passed on 28.02.2023 was barred by limitation and therefore void. Per Section 144C(13), the Assessing Officer must pass the final order within one month from the end of the month in which DRP directions are received. In this case, DRP directions were received on 07.06.2022, making the deadline 31.07.2022. The TPO's effect order dated 14.07.2022 did not extend this limitation period. Additionally, the ITAT noted procedural irregularity as the draft assessment order was issued by the Faceless Assessment Centre while the final order was passed by the jurisdictional Assessing Officer, deviating from the faceless assessment system. Appeal decided in assessee's favor.....