Rupee Hits All-Time Low at 87 Against Dollar: Mainstream Media Silent on Middle-Class Woes

The Indian rupee has recently plummeted to an unprecedented low of 87 against the US dollar, marking a significant moment for the Indian economy. This sharp decline should be a topic of intense discussion, especially considering the direct impact it has on the middle class, whose purchasing power is severely affected by such currency fluctuations. However, the mainstream media seems more inclined to celebrate the government's recent announcement of no income tax on earnings up to Rs 12 lakh under the new tax regime, rather than addressing this economic downturn.

This media focus on tax benefits, while laudable, masks a broader narrative of neglect concerning middle-class issues. The devaluation of the rupee directly influences the cost of imports, which in turn affects everything from fuel prices to everyday commodities. This depreciation does not merely represent a number; it's a tangible increase in the cost of living that the middle class must endure.

The silence from major news outlets on this matter is telling. It suggests a narrative control where positive economic stories are amplified, while challenges that could reveal the government's shortcomings in managing the economy are downplayed. The middle class, often the backbone of economic stability and consumption, finds its struggles overlooked. The rising costs of education, healthcare, and basic necessities are not headline news, even as they become increasingly burdensome with a weakening rupee.

Moreover, the government's promotion of the new tax regime, while beneficial to some, does not address the broader economic pressures. Inflation, job security, and the overall quality of life are deteriorating, with little to no discourse in the media. The narrative around tax exemptions becomes a distraction, a shiny object waved in the face of public scrutiny, diverting attention from critical economic management issues.

This scenario is particularly frustrating for the middle class, who have seen their aspirations and savings eroded by economic policies that do not fully consider their plight. The lack of media coverage on these issues can be seen as an endorsement of the government's economic narrative, one that celebrates selective achievements while ignoring the broader economic landscape.

In conclusion, as the rupee crosses the 87 mark against the dollar, the silence from the media on middle-class issues is not just a failure of reporting but a reflection of a broader societal disconnect. It's crucial for media to shift focus, providing a balanced view that includes the real-life implications of economic policies on the average citizen. Only then can a more informed public discourse lead to policies that genuinely cater to the needs of the middle class, rather than just the headline numbers.