Y Merina Chishi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 30, 2020 announced the extension of free ration scheme till November. This scheme will reportedly cost the government 90,000 crore. This mammoth scheme, the PM said, was possible mainly due to the hard-working farmers and 'honest taxpayers' of the country.
Tax is what makes a country and sustains its economy. Tax is essential for the growth of a nation without which, the government would be unable to provide support or care to its citizens.
There are a lot of arguments about whether the tribal people in India should start paying income tax. Most argue that times have changed and that there are many rich people who should be taxed. Increasing corruption and black money circulation in many exempted areas give more weight to these arguments.
Section 10 (26) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 exempts all Nagas from paying income tax. Nagaland, along with a few other states like Manipur, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and those areas mentioned under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution enjoys this privilege. While it can be argued that it was necessitated because the scheduled tribe areas were underdeveloped, this has also led to a lot of corruption and unaccountable governance in the region.
Most Nagas would like to believe that the State is still underdeveloped and that Nagas should not pay income tax. It does stand true to specific areas where development is still a far cry. But there are so many people who have benefited tremendously from it and it only seems befitting that they should give something in return. These people are living comfortable lives and can afford to pay income tax. By paying income tax, they will not only be performing their civic duties but also help in building a nation.
It is perhaps time for many rich Nagas and all those who can afford to pay income tax to start giving back to the nation. It may seem like a burden for many people who work hard for a living, but the tax is for the benefit of everyone. Our road, education, healthcare, defence, welfare schemes all rest on tax payer’s money. It comes back to us in different forms.
When we pay tax, we also empower us to question where our money goes. It will also keep a check and balance on those who so brazenly loot public money without the fear of getting caught. Though many Nagas would not like the idea of paying income tax, it is perhaps the only way now to check undisclosed and disproportionate assets and corruption in Nagaland. As citizens, it is unrealistic to expect progress and development if we don't allow the system to scrutinise the source of wealth of the rich through some mechanism.
Comments can be sent to merinachishi@gmail.com
