New Delhi [India], March 27: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha raised concerns over India’s taxation system, highlighting how citizens are taxed at every stage of life—from birth to death. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Chadha questioned whether citizens receive world-class healthcare, education, or infrastructure in return for their taxes.
“There are only two things certain in life: Death and Tax. From birth until the moment a family mourns a person’s death, the government is always there—not to help, but to tax,” he remarked.
A Life Cycle of Taxes: From Birth to Death
🔹 Birth Stage:
- Vaccines for newborns are taxed at 5% GST.
- Hospital rooms above ₹5,000 are taxed at 5% GST.
- Baby care items and sweets distributed after birth are also taxed at 5% GST.
🔹 Childhood & Schooling:
- Baby food is taxed at 12-18% GST.
- Diapers and toys at 12% GST.
- First haircut (Mundan) and photography services taxed at 18% GST.
- School items like uniforms, shoes, notebooks, and stationery are taxed between 12-18% GST.
- Extracurricular activities also attract 18% GST.
🔹 Teenage & Youth:
- Smartphones and internet recharges are taxed.
- OTT platforms like Netflix and Spotify are taxed.
- Movie tickets and snacks attract GST.
- Buying a bike or scooter also comes with GST.
🔹 Higher Education & Early Career:
- Private college tuition fees, hostel rent, and student loans are taxed.
- Salaries are deducted for TDS and income tax.
- Eating out, insurance premiums, and shopping all come with added taxes.
🔹 Middle Age & Peak Earnings:
- Higher income = Higher income tax.
- Buying a car comes with GST and road tax.
- Fuel purchases include VAT and excise duties.
- Homeownership involves stamp duty, construction GST, and property tax.
🔹 Retirement & Old Age:
- Pension and interest income are taxed.
- Healthcare services and medicines are taxed under GST.
- Legal fees for writing a will also attract taxes.
🔹 After Death:
- GST applies to funeral items like ghee, sandalwood, and coconut.
- Publishing an obituary attracts 5% GST.
- Inheritance and property transfers involve duties and cess.
Chadha’s Criticism: Is Taxation Justified?
Chadha’s speech resonated with many as he questioned whether citizens receive fair value for the taxes imposed at every stage of life. He urged the government to ensure better infrastructure, healthcare, and education instead of merely increasing tax burdens.
His remarks have sparked a debate on tax policies, with many calling for a reassessment of the GST structure and tax relief for essential services.