Wed Jan 22 08:36:00 UTC 2025: ## Kejriwal Accuses Centre of ‘Tax Terrorism’ Against Middle Class, Demands Budget Relief

**New Delhi** – Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal launched a scathing attack on the central government, accusing it of subjecting the middle class to “tax terrorism” and treating them as its ATM. Two weeks ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, Kejriwal released a video message highlighting the plight of the middle class, claiming they are squeezed between vote banks and industrialists who benefit from government policies.

Kejriwal argued that successive governments have neglected the middle class, imposing heavy taxes without providing adequate returns in terms of quality education, healthcare, or job security. He stated that the middle class contributes over 50% of their income in taxes, hindering their ability to achieve their dreams and forcing families to forgo having children due to financial constraints. He also claimed that high taxes are driving people out of the country.

To address these concerns, Kejriwal presented seven demands to be raised by AAP MPs in Parliament:

1. Increased education budget
2. Nationwide cap on private school fees
3. Subsidies for higher education
4. Increased health budget
5. Removal of GST from essential commodities
6. Removal of tax on health insurance premiums
7. Zero tax on annual income up to ₹10 lakh
8. Robust retirement plans
9. Free treatment and 50% concession on train travel for senior citizens

Kejriwal contrasted the central government’s approach with the AAP government’s initiatives in Delhi, citing increased education spending, improved state-run schools, reduced electricity and water bills, and the expansion of Mohalla Clinics, which he said are highly utilized by middle-class residents.

BJP spokesperson RP Singh countered Kejriwal’s claims, questioning the AAP leader’s achievements for the middle class in Delhi and accusing him of broken promises regarding free WiFi and clean water. Singh also criticized the AAP government’s education policies, alleging high dropout rates in classes 9 and 11. He dismissed Kejriwal’s accusations as an attempt to deceive voters.

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