Pintu Mahara, a boatman hailing from Arail village in Prayagraj, has garnered significant attention since the Maha Kumbh festival. He reportedly amassed considerable earnings during the event. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that a family of boatmen generated an impressive Rs 30 crore within a span of 45 days during the Maha Kumbh, which took place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26.

Following this announcement, discussions erupted on social media, and it was reported that Pintu received a tax notice from the Income Tax Department, demanding Rs 12.8 crore. This situation raises numerous questions regarding the taxation of sudden high income. Pintu, who previously earned around Rs 500 daily, saw his earnings soar to Rs 30 crore in just 45 days. C

M Yogi Adityanath highlighted in the assembly that a family operating 130 boats collectively earned this substantial amount, averaging daily earnings of Rs 50,000 to Rs 52,000 per boat. Previously, the daily income from each boat ranged between Rs 1,000 and Rs 2,000, but this figure increased dramatically during the Maha Kumbh. However, this newfound prosperity has been overshadowed by the challenges Pintu now faces, as he received a tax notice for Rs 12.8 crore under Sections 4 and 68 of the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Sparked debate

This incident has ignited a debate regarding the taxation of unexpected income. Pintu disclosed that his family earned Rs 30 crore in just 45 days by managing a fleet of boats during the Maha Kumbh, leading to widespread reports on social media about the tax notice he received from the Income Tax Department.