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As the caretaker government unveils a contingency plan, we find ourselves at the intersection of economic necessity and the plight of the common man. While acknowledging the imperative of securing the IMF program through tax measures, the government must tread carefully to shield the common man from the looming burden of inflation.
The introduction of new taxes, as outlined in the contingency plan, raises concerns about exacerbating the struggles faced by the common man, already beleaguered by historical inflation. The private sector’s salary scales, notably modest, demand immediate attention, necessitating at least a hundred percent increase. Alas, the minimum wage, pegged at Rs. 35,000 for unskilled labor, remains a mere aspiration, with most receiving a paltry Rs. 20,000 in factories and mills. Even those toiling for 12 hours a day as Private Security Guards or at petrol pumps find themselves earning less than Rs. 25,000 monthly.
While we recognize the unavoidable need for new taxes, the government should employ a judicious approach to minimize the impact on the common person. The burden of economic reform should not disproportionately fall on the shoulders of those already struggling to make ends meet.
The proposed tax measures, including an additional tax on sugar, an elevated GST rate on textiles and leather products, and increased taxes on machinery and raw materials, present a formidable challenge. However, in the pursuit of a balanced economic revival, we urge the government to explore alternatives that alleviate the pressure on the common man.
A fair distribution of the taxation burden, coupled with a comprehensive review of salary structures in the private sector, is imperative. The government’s commitment to securing a bailout package from the IMF must not come at the expense of the common man’s well-being. As the caretaker government engages with the IMF, we implore them to consider the social repercussions of these tax measures and explore avenues that prioritize the welfare of the common man.
In conclusion, the economic challenges confronting our nation demand resilience and pragmatism. As we navigate the delicate balance between economic recovery and social responsibility, let us ensure that the common man is shielded from the storm of inflation and taxation, emerging with the dignity and security they rightfully deserve.
