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Supreme Court Criticises Election Freebies: "Creating a Class of Parasites"

In a significant ruling on February 12, 2025, the Supreme Court of India expressed strong disapproval of political parties offering freebies during election campaigns. Justice B.R. Gavai, part of a two-judge bench, remarked that such practices are fostering a "class of parasites" who become unwilling to work due to the allure of unearned benefits.

The court's observations came during a hearing on a public interest litigation concerning the provision of shelter for homeless individuals. Justice Gavai questioned the long-term impact of election freebies, stating, "Are we not creating a class of parasites? When elections are declared, people are not willing to work. They are getting free rations without doing any work!"

This critique aligns with concerns previously raised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Reserve Bank of India, both warning that indiscriminate distribution of freebies could lead to fiscal strain and economic imbalance. Despite these warnings, political parties continue to promise incentives like cash handouts, free electricity, water, and loan waivers to attract voters.

The Supreme Court has also highlighted the necessity to distinguish between genuine welfare schemes and mere electoral freebies. In August 2022, the court referred petitions seeking a ban on freebies to a three-judge bench, emphasizing the need to revisit the 2013 judgment in the S. Subramaniam Balaji case, which dealt with the legality of such promises.

The debate over election freebies has intensified, with critics arguing that they undermine the work ethic and strain public finances, while proponents view them as essential support for marginalized communities. The Supreme Court's recent comments have reignited discussions on the long-term implications of such practices on India's socio-economic fabric.

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