UNKOWN TDS CLAIM IN INCOME TAX RETURN

A taxpayer claimed unknown TDS in their FY 17-18 income tax return based on Form 26AS, and subsequently received a refund. However, after five years, this TDS credit now appears as nil in their Form 26AS. The individual is concerned about potential prosecution and jail time, despite being willing to pay any outstanding amount with interest and penalties. Advice suggests that if the amount was paid via challan, the department may overlook such mistakes.