Editorial . . . . .
Any public policy change that doesn’t support production and productivity over the long term may be referred to as a freebie. Freebies are not a new concept; rather, it is ingrained in Indian politics as a way of life (in the name of socialism). The political parties are constantly competing with one another to entice Indian voters. Political parties in our nation are increasingly announcing concessions and free advantages to the populace in advance of general elections in the hopes that they would win and establish the government. These serve as an incentive for voters, particularly in rural areas where residents are generally poor and illiterate. These are definitely highly alluring, even in some urban regions where people live in filth and slum-like structures. Naturally, these inducements are quite alluring, and as a result, many people are easily taken in. It is true that several political parties that made these kinds of promises in their manifestos really delivered on them when they won or kept their seats in office, much to the delight of the electorate. As a result, numerous groups are taking advantage and engaging in a friendly competition to give away free things. This has angered certain members of the public who strongly believe that it is interfering with routine operations and putting the economy in danger going forward. Many states lack stable economies and are dependent on the government to provide even the most basic needs. Even the loans that states took out haven’t yet been entirely repaid, and they nevertheless continue to borrow money from the Center and other sources without giving it a second thought. The petitioner against freebies during elections, lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay, informed the Supreme Court that the two economic apex bodies of the nation have expressed grave concern over such actions, which will have a negative impact on the economy and, consequently, the sustainability of the economy. Senior lawyer Vijay Hansaria argued on the petitioner’s behalf that prior to the announcement of freebies, there should be careful research and comprehension of fiscal and budgetary management because failing to do so could have negative consequences down the road. He, therefore, pleaded with the Supreme Court (SC) to get involved. Hansaria demanded action against political parties for giving out irrational benefits, arguing that under Article 293(3) of the Constitution, a state government cannot borrow money or raise loans while it has an outstanding loan with the national govt unless the central government agrees to certain restrictions it may deem appropriate. Additionally, the petitioner sought the Supreme Court to appoint a committee of experts to thoroughly investigate the situation, make appropriate suggestions, and publish an “Economic Impact Assessment” before any freebies are provided or given out by the state government, political parties, etc. Acknowledging the gospel truth that the poor need help and deserve it When the SC heard Upadhyay’s PIL on August 3, they also inquired about the effects of giveaways on the country’s economy. The Apex Court of India had urged various stakeholders, including the central Government, NITI Aayog, the Finance Commission, and the RBI, to seriously consider the issue of freebies given out during elections and had recommended the creation of an expert panel to look into the matter. SC emphasized the connection between the faltering economy and welfare policies. The SC emphasized the differences between freebies and social welfare programs on August 11 while emphasizing the necessity for a balance between economic sustainability and human welfare. The SC dismissed the petitioner’s further claim that political parties shouldn’t be recognized for offering freebies ahead of elections. There is nothing wrong with having a multifaceted social security scheme driven by policy that aims to aid the poor in poverty eradication. However, such a scheme requires careful planning and cannot be created right before an election.