Supreme Court Criticizes Pre-Election Freebies
The Supreme Court criticized the unchecked distribution of freebies, stating that they push the poor into a parasitic lifestyle, depriving them of the motivation to seek employment, integrate into the mainstream, and contribute to national development.
About Freebies
Definition: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) defines freebies as “public welfare measures provided free of charge.” However, the Election Commission of India has not provided a specific definition of freebies.
Examples: Free electricity, water, public transportation, etc.
Concerns Regarding Freebies
Fiscal Burden: Excessive freebies strain state finances, contributing to high fiscal deficits. For example, Punjab faced a financial crisis due to overspending on freebies.
Hindrance to Development: Funds that could be used for infrastructure and job creation are instead spent on short-term benefits.
Environmental Damage: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report highlighted that free electricity in Punjab contributed to groundwater depletion.
Weakening Institutions: Programs like loan waivers and free power put pressure on financial institutions such as banks and Distribution Companies (DISCOMs), as pointed out by N.K. Singh.
Way Forward
Balanced Welfare Approach: There needs to be a distinction between essential welfare schemes (such as health, education, and food security) and non-merit-based freebies.
Institutional and Legislative Reforms: It is essential to encourage parliamentary debates to define and regulate the distribution of freebies.
Political and Electoral Accountability: The Election Commission of India (ECI) should have a greater role in ensuring transparency in electoral manifestos.
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