A thought-provoking LinkedIn post by a Bengaluru-based CEO has set social media buzzing, drawing attention to a topic that’s rarely discussed out loud — the growing financial pressure on India’s middle class. Terming it the “biggest scam”, the CEO’s post talks about how middle-class Indians are silently shouldering the burden of economic downturns, without protest, support, or even acknowledgment.
From stagnant salaries to skyrocketing living costs, the post unpacks the harsh reality faced by a population segment often considered “comfortable” yet increasingly strained. Let’s dive deeper into what’s being said — and why it matters.
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A Viral LinkedIn Post by a Bengaluru CEO Has Ignited a Crucial Debate
In the now-viral post, the Bengaluru-based tech CEO voiced concerns that struck a chord with thousands of Indians. Here’s the crux:
“India’s middle class is the silent shock absorber of the economy. Stagnant income, increasing EMIs, education costs, fuel hikes, health expenses – all are absorbed without strikes, protests, or subsidies. That’s the biggest scam nobody talks about.”
The statement has sparked a flood of comments and shares, with many middle-class professionals expressing how deeply they relate to the sentiment.
Why Is the Middle Class Quietly Suffering?
Despite being the backbone of India’s consumer economy, the middle class is often left out of policy benefits like subsidies, tax breaks, or direct transfers. At the same time, they don’t earn enough to comfortably absorb inflation, price shocks, or job losses.
The Harsh Reality: Stagnant Salaries, Soaring Expenses
One of the key points raised was the lack of income growth. While prices of essentials have risen sharply, salaries have barely kept pace with inflation.
Here’s What They’re Facing:
- No significant hike in wages over the past 5–7 years
- School fees, healthcare, and rent rising faster than income
- Fuel and food inflation eating into monthly budgets
- Growing dependence on EMIs and credit cards for lifestyle maintenance
It’s a case of working harder, earning more — yet saving less.
‘The Biggest Scam’: Debt Dependency is Becoming a Norm
To cope with rising expenses, many in the middle class are relying heavily on credit — be it personal loans, BNPL schemes, or credit card EMIs. This growing reliance on debt creates a vicious cycle that erodes financial freedom over time.
“Everyone around me has at least one EMI running – a car, a home, or a loan for a child’s education,” wrote one commenter.
The Invisible Tax: No Support, But More Burden
Unlike the economically weaker sections, the middle class rarely receives government aid or subsidies. But they are taxed heavily, often without the cushion of incentives or rebates that benefit other income groups.
They are too rich to be poor and too poor to be rich — stuck in an economic limbo.
Emotional and Mental Stress on the Rise
With rising financial pressure comes emotional exhaustion. Long working hours, rising expenses, competitive environments, and lack of social security are causing mental health concerns to spike among urban professionals.
“We don’t complain because we were raised to be thankful, not demanding,” said one viral comment.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
This isn’t just an emotional outburst — it’s a reflection of a systemic issue. If India’s working middle class feels economically cornered, it impacts consumption, innovation, productivity, and ultimately economic growth.
What Can Be Done?
Here are a few suggestions that have emerged from the ongoing online discussion:
1. Tax Relief for the Middle Class
Introduce higher exemption limits, simplify filing, and increase deductions.
2. Affordable Education and Healthcare
Bring more transparency and regulation in private education and medical sectors.
3. Income Reforms
Push for annual wage inflation adjustments, like cost-of-living allowances.
4. Debt Awareness Campaigns
Educate people on managing debt and avoiding lifestyle inflation.
‘The Biggest Scam’: Conclusion
The Bengaluru CEO’s post may have used strong words like “scam,” but it reflects the genuine frustration and growing struggles of India’s middle class. Often overlooked and under-supported, this segment continues to quietly power India’s growth while carrying the economic burden without a safety net.
The post has done more than just go viral — it has sparked a national conversation. And that’s a start.
‘The Biggest Scam’: FAQs
1. Why is India’s middle class being called a ‘shock absorber’?
Because they absorb the financial shocks of inflation, rising costs, and stagnant wages without protest or visible support.
2. What triggered this debate?
A viral LinkedIn post by a CEO from Bengaluru that highlighted the financial and emotional strain on the middle class.
3. Is this a new issue?
Not really. The pressure on the middle class has been building for years, but rarely gets attention in policy or media.
4. What are common challenges faced by the middle class?
Stagnant salaries, high education and healthcare costs, heavy taxes, and growing debt.
5. What can be done to support India’s middle class?
Tax relief, better public services, financial literacy, and regular salary reviews can help ease the burden.
