Your life as a taxpayer begins with your first salary, when income tax is deducted through TDS before the money reaches your bank account.
You buy a house and pay stamp duty and registration fees. Furnishing it means paying GST on appliances, electronics and other goods. You pay GST on internet, phone bills, subscriptions, groceries and restaurant meals. Buying a vehicle brings taxes and tolls, while fuel carries Central Excise Duty and State VAT.
You invest your taxed income in shares or mutual funds and pay Securities Transaction Tax. Selling investments at a profit can attract capital gains tax. Interest earned on fixed deposits may also be subject to TDS.
Healthcare brings another set of expenses, including taxes on medicines, tests and services. Even after retirement, taxes can continue through income tax on taxable pension income and withdrawals exceeding applicable tax-free limits.
As a senior citizen, you pay property tax on your home and GST on health insurance premiums. When assets are eventually sold by your heirs, applicable taxes may arise.
The concern is not merely the number of taxes but the cumulative burden on citizens throughout their lives. Taxpayers naturally expect efficient civic services, accountability and transparent governance in return. Citizens contribute to the government through multiple taxes and charges. They are entitled to ask whether the public services and governance they receive adequately reflect that contribution.
REKHA SARIN, Benaulim
