New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal has unveiled a 7-point manifesto aimed at addressing the challenges faced by India’s middle class. Calling them victims of “tax terrorism,” Kejriwal emphasized their critical role as the backbone of the Indian economy, yet lamented how successive governments have ignored them.
The 7-Point Charter
In his video message, Kejriwal outlined seven key demands to alleviate the financial and social burdens on the middle class:
- Increase Education Budget: Raise the allocation from 2% to 10% of GDP and cap private school fees.
- Scholarships and Subsidies: Provide financial support for higher education to ensure accessibility for all.
- Healthcare Investment: Boost healthcare spending to 10% of GDP and eliminate taxes on health insurance premiums.
- Tax Reforms: Increase the income tax exemption limit from ₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh to reduce the financial strain on households.
- GST Relief: Remove GST on essential commodities, which disproportionately affects middle-class families.
- Senior Citizen Welfare: Reintroduce the 50% concession on train fares for senior citizens and provide free healthcare for them in both private and government hospitals.
- Retirement Plans: Implement robust retirement and pension schemes to ensure financial security for the elderly.
Criticism of Past Governments
Kejriwal accused previous governments of exploiting the middle class for tax collection while failing to address their needs. “The middle class is the real superpower of the Indian economy, yet it has been reduced to a slave mindset since independence,” he said.
AAP’s Commitment
Kejriwal pledged that AAP’s MPs would advocate for middle-class issues in Parliament, making them a focal point in political discussions. He called on the central government to include these reforms in the upcoming Union Budget.
Context and Upcoming Elections
The announcement comes ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for February 5, 2025, with results to be declared on February 8. The AAP is seeking a third consecutive term after securing a landslide victory in 2020, winning 62 out of 70 seats.
Middle Class as a Priority
Kejriwal’s manifesto reflects his party’s strategy to solidify its support base among the middle class. By addressing pressing concerns such as education, healthcare, and tax reforms, AAP aims to resonate with a demographic often overlooked in mainstream politics.
With Delhi set for a three-way contest between AAP, BJP, and Congress, Kejriwal’s focus on middle-class issues could prove pivotal in swaying votes.
