Q. Freebies, often promised by political parties, reflect a breakdown of welfare governance in India. Critically examine the ethical, economic, and constitutional dimensions of this trend. (350–400 words)

Introduction

The culture of offering freebies—such as free electricity, cash transfers, and loan waivers—has become a hallmark of electoral politics in India. While projected as welfare, these promises often represent populist strategies lacking long-term vision and raise concerns over economic sustainability and democratic ethics.

Understanding Freebies vs. Welfare

Freebies are unconditional, non-targeted giveaways used to gain electoral mileage. In contrast, welfare schemes are structured investments in public goods like health, education, employment, and nutrition, designed to promote long-term human development.

As economist Jean Drèze notes, “Welfare must empower, not pacify.” Freebies, in their current form, tend to pacify rather than transform.

Economic and Governance Implications

1. Fiscal Strain: According to the RBI’s 2022 report, 10 Indian states have debt-to-GSDP ratios exceeding 35%, with some at risk of default—aggravated by populist schemes.
2. Short-termism in Policy: Freebies undermine long-term planning by focusing on immediate gains over structural reform, employment generation, or capacity-building.
3. Erosion of Accountability: Political parties face little scrutiny over the cost-benefit outcomes of such promises, leading to poor impact evaluation and leakages.
4. Culture of Dependence: Repeated handouts weaken the incentive for productivity and self-reliance, particularly among youth and marginalised communities.

Ethical and Constitutional Dimensions

The Directive Principles (Articles 38, 39, and 41) mandate the state to ensure social and economic justice. However, the Supreme Court in S. Subramaniam Balaji v. State of Tamil Nadu (2013) cautioned against the misuse of public funds through populist measures, calling for a clear demarcation between legitimate welfare and electoral inducement.

B.R. Ambedkar warned that political democracy without social and economic justice is incomplete. Freebies risk reducing democratic citizenship to transactional relationships.

Way Forward

• Electoral Oversight: The Election Commission should scrutinise manifestos for fiscal responsibility.
• Codification of Welfare Principles: Create a central framework distinguishing rights-based welfare from discretionary giveaways.
• Focus on Core Services: Invest in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to create lasting capabilities.
• Public Awareness: Sensitise citizens on the difference between entitlement and empowerment.

Conclusion

Freebies may offer instant gratification, but they weaken democratic accountability and long-term welfare. The future of governance lies in empowerment through equity, not appeasement through entitlement.