DT
PT
Subscribe To Print Edition About The Tribune Code Of Ethics Download App Advertise with us Classifieds
search-icon-img
search-icon-img
Advertisement

Will Union Budget have impact on Delhi elections?

On January 22, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) released a seven-point manifesto in which it did not promise anything but demanded seven things in the Union Budget, which would ultimately help the middle income group residents of Delhi. Interestingly, their...
  • fb
  • twitter
  • whatsapp
  • whatsapp
Advertisement

On January 22, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) released a seven-point manifesto in which it did not promise anything but demanded seven things in the Union Budget, which would ultimately help the middle income group residents of Delhi.

Interestingly, their first demand was tax exemption till Rs 10 lakh and now the Union Budget has been presented, which gave a tax exemption till Rs 12 lakh — a major relief to the middle class.

Even though the AAP criticised the Centre and termed the Budget as a major disappointment, it has surpassed the expectations of the common man who would have never expected to get such a major tax relief.

Advertisement

Definitely, the tax relief announced by the Central Government is expected to have a direct bearing on the 27-odd constituencies which have a sizeable presence of middle-class voters in the 70-member Assembly going to the polls on February 5.

Every year, when the Finance Minister presents the Union Budget, experts and analysts dissect its impact on the economy. However, for the common man, the Budget is not about fiscal deficits, GDP growth rates, or capital expenditure—it’s about how it will affect his daily life.

Advertisement

This year’s Budget has sparked mixed reactions of appreciation and scepticism among middle-class citizens, small business owners and salaried employees.

“For years, we have been asking for tax relief, and this time, the government has finally listened. The extra savings will help me invest in my family’s future,” said Ramesh Gupta, a software engineer from Delhi.

Similarly, Priya Sharma, a private school teacher, said this would ease financial stress. “I can now save more or maybe take that long-pending vacation.” However, some individuals feel the tax relief might not be substantial enough to counter the rising cost of living,” she added.

Despite the tax relief, inflation remains a major concern. With food and essential commodities continuing to get expensive, many feel the Budget does little to control price hikes. Rajesh Verma, a small grocery store owner, expresses his frustration: “What’s the use of a tax cut if everything I buy —vegetables, pulses, fuel — is still getting costlier? My customers also have less purchasing power.”

Many families are worried that rising expenses will negate any benefits from reduced taxes. The cost of education and healthcare is another area where common people expected more relief, but found the budget lacking.

For many young professionals and job seekers, the biggest worry is employment. While the government has announced incentives for startups and investments in infrastructure, many are unsure whether this will translate into immediate job opportunities. Aman Saxena, a recent college graduate, expressed his concerns: “Every year, the government talks about job creation, but where are the jobs? Fresh graduates like me are struggling to find employment.”

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
tlbr_img1 Home tlbr_img2 Opinion tlbr_img3 Classifieds tlbr_img4 Videos tlbr_img5 E-Paper