In a sharp critique of political parties announcing welfare schemes before elections, the Supreme Court has expressed concerns that such practices might discourage people from working and could create a “class of parasites.” A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih made these remarks while hearing a case on the right to shelter for homeless individuals in urban areas. The court questioned whether providing financial aid and free ration without employment incentives was counterproductive to national development. Justice Gavai specifically pointed out Maharashtra’s ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme—offering ₹1,500 per month to women from lower-income families—alongside similar schemes in other states, arguing that such benefits, when introduced just before elections, might be deterring people from seeking work.
During the hearing, Advocate Prashant Bhushan argued that most people in India were willing to work if given opportunities. However, Justice Gavai countered with an example from his own experience, stating that many agricultural laborers in Maharashtra had stopped working due to pre-election welfare schemes. The court acknowledged the importance of government assistance but stressed the need for a balanced approach that integrates beneficiaries into the workforce rather than making them dependent on handouts. The Attorney General, R Venkataramani, informed the court that the Centre was working on an urban poverty alleviation program to provide shelter and employment solutions, but the bench demanded a clear timeline and a nationwide strategy.
The court’s remarks came on the same day the Delhi High Court refused to entertain a petition challenging pre-election freebies promised by various political parties. The petitioner, former judge SN Dhingra, argued that such schemes amounted to electoral corruption under the Representation of People Act. However, the Delhi High Court directed him to approach the Supreme Court, as a similar case was already under consideration. The debate over freebies remains politically charged, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticizing opposition parties for allegedly using taxpayer money to secure votes. In response, opposition leaders have defended welfare programs, arguing that they help alleviate poverty and counteract inflation. The Supreme Court is set to hear the matter again in six weeks, as the debate over balancing welfare and economic responsibility continues.
