'More money to govt than spending on yourself,' Viral post on income tax issues sparks online debate

As tax season unfolds, individuals are taking to social media platforms to voice their concerns and opinions regarding income tax returns in India. One recent post has gained significant traction, shedding light on the ongoing issues faced by the country's salaried class when it comes to taxes. The post has underscored various challenges encountered by taxpayers, particularly salaried individuals.

The post, which has since gone viral, specifically pointed out bureaucratic obstacles and the perceived lack of benefits, especially during periods of unemployment. EngiNerd, the author of the post, expressed frustration over what they see as an unfair burden on taxpayers, especially those who rely on fixed salaries.

The return on income tax paid is horrible in India, no where in this world a salaried class is exploit by Govt like this.

You pay 31.2% tax or most probably you give more money to Govt than you spend on yourself annually, but in return

1. To get even a small work done in Govt…

— EngiNerd. (@mainbhiengineer) April 1, 2024

The crux of EngiNerd's argument revolves around the high tax rates in India, which can soar as high as 31.2 percent. Despite contributing significant sums to the government's coffers, many taxpayers feel that the returns on this investment are insufficient and fail to justify the heavy tax burden they bear.

EngiNerd articulated this sentiment, stating, "The return on income tax paid is horrible in India, nowhere in this world is the salaried class exploited by the government like this." The post highlighted the stark reality that if a taxpayer loses their job the following year, they receive no tangible benefits in return for the substantial taxes paid.

Paid around 5L in income tax only, I didn't even spend that much money on myself.

— Dheeraj (@idiotous) April 1, 2024

Moreover, the post called for income taxpayers to be accorded priority in certain government services, such as railway ticket reservations and expediting processes in government offices. EngiNerd emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting the hardworking salaried class, suggesting that they deserve preferential treatment given their significant contributions to the economy.

Irrespective of government, this is the permanent situation of a middle class person in India - pic.twitter.com/IYXb3t49TA

— Desi Bee 🐝 (@MujheSabAataHai) April 1, 2024

The conclusion of the post reiterated the plea for fairness and acknowledgment, stating, "If nothing else, give income taxpayers some priority in getting railway tickets reserved, some priority in getting their job done in government offices. But no, the government keeps 81 crore people dependent on free ration so that they keep voting, and the hardworking salaried class keeps getting exploited." This sentiment reflects a broader concern among taxpayers regarding the perceived disparity in benefits and treatment within the taxation system.