Professional’s Viral Post on Rs 1 Crore Tax Sparks Debate on India’s Social Security:

An Indian professional's post on X (formerly Twitter) has gone viral after he claimed that he paid nearly Rs 1 crore in income tax over the last 14 years but received no support after losing his job.

Mohamed Nowsath shared his frustration in a post, saying:

"14 years of career, paid close to Rs 1 crore as income tax so far. Now, being laid off. Absolutely no trace of any support system. Thank you, India."

His post started a widespread discussion about whether India should provide unemployment benefits or better social security for taxpayers.

In another post, Nowsath said he had also learned that his severance pay would be taxed, adding to his disappointment.

"Just learned that my severance pay will also be taxed! I don't know what to say," he wrote.

Many social media users agreed with Nowsath and said India needs a stronger social security system. Common in many countries, these systems offer financial assistance to people who lose their jobs, become disabled, retire or face other financial difficulties.

But others argued that individuals should be responsible for saving money for emergencies instead of expecting financial support from the government.

“What support system is expected?” asked one user.

Nowsath replied that the government could offer tax-free financial assistance for three to six months to people who lose their jobs after paying taxes regularly.

Another user pointed out that countries like the UK, Australia, Canada and France offer unemployment benefits and other financial support to laid-off workers. The user said that while people often compare India’s tax rates with other countries, they rarely compare the public benefits taxpayers get in return. Some users defended the government, saying taxpayers already get benefits through schemes like EPF, NPS and tax-saving investments under section 80C, and access to government hospitals and schools.

Responding to criticism, Nowsath clarified that if taxpayers are not expected to receive financial support during unemployment, they should at least receive better public infrastructure and services.

He said he was willing to manage his own emergency savings, but expected safer roads, clean air, proper footpaths, cycling infrastructure, more green public spaces, and faster public transport in return for the taxes paid.

His comments have revived debates on the use of tax money, the quality of public services, and whether India should provide better social security benefits to taxpayers.