Book Keeping (No. of Years Books have to be kept)

Abhishek Kumar (Business) (34 Points)

05 October 2008  

Can any one tell me how long is it mandatory to keep our books & vouchers in safety so that they can produced when a taxman demands?

For Instance:

In my firms balance sheet I have a loan which is being carried forward from FY 96-97. Can the taxman ask for proof of the way we got the loan I.e Cash/Cheque etc. My case is in scrutiny & I will shortly appear on the 1st date.