Ashneer Grover, an entrepreneur and former Shark Tank India judge, has sparked a debate with his views on India’s tax system. In a series of viral videos, Grover expressed his belief that the country’s tax system is heavily skewed, with the government taking away 30-40 percent of people’s income without providing tangible benefits in return. He compared paying taxes in India to a punishment.
According to Grover, taxpayers in India feel like they are doing charity without receiving any benefits. He questioned the concept of working for the government for five months out of the year, stating that it feels like being a slave to the government. Grover further argued that entrepreneurs often find ways to evade taxes, while salaried employees have no option as tax deductions are made at the source. He also criticized the additional burden of the 18 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST).
In another video, Grover expressed his priority to reduce the income tax rate in India if he were to become a politician. He proposed a flat tax rate of 10-15 percent for everyone, believing that it would result in increased tax collection and discourage tax evasion.
Grover also raised concerns about the recently announced increased Tax Collected at Source (TCS) rate of 20 percent on international credit card spending. He highlighted the irony of political donations enjoying tax exemption while individuals are subjected to higher TCS rates.
These comments by Grover have ignited discussions about India’s tax system and the need for reforms. While some agree with his viewpoint and call for a simpler and fairer tax structure, others argue that taxes are essential for the functioning of the government and the provision of public services.
It remains to be seen how Grover’s remarks will influence the ongoing tax reform discussions in India and whether they will lead to any concrete changes in the country’s tax policies.
