Virat Kohli, a renowned Indian cricketer, and his wife Anushka Sharma, a popular Bollywood actress, recently made headlines for their decision to settle in London. This news coincided with a viral social media post by a startup founder who suggested that high-salaried individuals should consider leaving India due to excessive taxation and poor infrastructure. The post sparked a heated debate about the responsibilities of India’s wealthiest citizens and the nature of the country’s economic growth.
India’s economy is a complex mix of expanding businesses, new startups, and ambitions to become a global leader, juxtaposed with concerns about a weakening rupee and frustration over inadequate public services. Some argue that settling abroad is a pragmatic response to systemic inefficiencies, particularly for the wealthy who can afford private solutions and expensive equipment. However, critics point out that these conversations seem disconnected from the daily realities of most Indians who cannot dream of such privileges.
The startup founder’s post highlighted the issue of high taxes, arguing that they do not translate into better public services or infrastructure. While this criticism touches on real issues, it fails to acknowledge the collective responsibility of the privileged class to drive meaningful change.
Kohli and Sharma’s London relocation
Those who have climbed the ladder of success in India often forget that their comfortable lives were built on the backs of cheap domestic labor and inequality. Glorifying the act of leaving India while complaining about taxes shows a lack of understanding about the moral obligation to give back to society. Systemic change is not solely the duty of the government or civil society; the rich are also obliged to support reforms and challenge inequalities.
Avoiding this accountability is not just unjust; it is immoral. If the privileged choose to indulge in self-serving narratives instead of contributing to the collective good, meaningful change will remain elusive. Giving back is a moral obligation that transcends national borders and should continue even if individuals move to other countries.
The departure of a few wealthy individuals will not halt India’s growth or the resilience of its people. However, it is crucial for those who have benefited most from the system to use their resources and influence to create opportunities for those left behind and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.
