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Last week, Congress party came under extreme criticism from wide range of people and opinion makers about their idea of redistribution of wealth from rich to poor. Two weeks back in my article “Voters Lack Choices During Election”, I argued why opposition alliance need to capture the imagination of the voters by giving them an idea of India that is more inclusive, progressive and economically vibrant. Less did I know that within one week party leadership would completely damage its campaign and provide BJP an opportunity to further enhance their electoral position.
The party’s idea outrightly speaks about re-distribution of money to poor, which is actually the money of hard-earned taxpayers. In pursue of targeting only Ambani and Adani, the party is also attacking many billionaires and millionaires of this country. Even a working professional who is focused on amassing significant wealth in his/her lifetime for his/her family and kids would also feel targeted. An idea of Inheritance Tax and Super Rich Tax creates doubt or fear in the minds of the people across society levels.
Here are the few questions that someone needs to ask party or its leadership.
- What motivation would person working in MNC would have, when their savings of a lifetime would be taxed at a high rate?
- Why would a young poor person seek work or a job, when he or she knows that government would provide them free money?
- Will large number of growing millionaires and billionaires (job creators) stay put in this country, knowing they are constantly criticized and might be subjected to higher taxation?
Countries in the Middle-East like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman and others are creating an environment where businesses can thrive and hard-working people can develop their future. The opposition party of this country are coming up with ideas that discourages business opportunities and also diminish their prospects of coming back to power.
Rahul Gandhi speaking on the idea of redistribution of wealth shows how far behind he is in understanding the needs and aspirations of the young voters. Whereas, the Prime Minister projects himself as working 24*7 for the country, outlines roadmap for the future, and aims to create a Developed India or Viksit Bharat by 2047. It does not matter if what he says is true or achievable, but at least he gives young people a direction, motivates them to work hard and also inspires them to come up in society. Recently conducted National Creators Award 2024 and even a session with young gamers reflect that he is more connected with the young voters and understand their aspirations.
Most of the new entrepreneurs in this country are coming from lesser means but have high aspirations with strong educational background. They see Ambani and Adani as an inspirational figure rather than someone they despise.
A more progressive idea for the opposition party would be to enable a policy or scheme that would develop skill among young people by providing them right education basis the changing times. A more prudent use of the money would be to provide scholarships to the people who have high aspirations but lesser resources. The young poor people of India must be given right direction, education, inspiration, and motivation rather than free handouts of money.
These pieces are being published as they have been received – they have not been edited/fact-checked by ThePrint