Top News

On Thursday, the Supreme Court expressed strong criticism regarding the distribution of "free schemes" by political parties across all states, raising concerns about their impact on public finances. The court emphasized that instead of distributing resources through free schemes, political parties should formulate well-planned policies aimed at improving the standard of living for citizens, such as unemployment programs.

The Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, remarked that such extravagance could hinder the country's economic growth. While it is the state's duty to provide resources, he questioned whether there is a need to focus on those benefiting from free schemes. He further noted that states are running deficits yet continue to offer free schemes. He posed the question: why can't 25 percent of the revenue collected in a year be utilized for state development?

The court clarified that this issue is not confined to a single state but pertains to all states in the country. Justice Joymalya Bagchi stated that the discussion is not limited to one state; it encompasses all states. This is a matter of planned expenditure. Why not present budget proposals and justify that this expenditure is for unemployment? What were once merely electoral promises have now evolved into a significant strategy for winning elections in India.

A report by Equitas Investments highlights how political parties are increasingly relying on free packages under the guise of welfare schemes to secure votes, often burdening state finances. The report indicates that as political parties compete against each other, welfare schemes and 'free packages' have transformed from mere electoral promises into a new currency of political power.