The Supreme Court of India has raised concerns over the growing trend of political parties announcing freebies ahead of elections, strongly criticizing this practice on Tuesday.

A bench led by Justice B.R. Gavai observed that such schemes discourage people from working as they receive free rations and financial aid without labor. "Unfortunately, because of these freebies, people are not willing to work. They are getting free rations and amounts without doing any work," he stated.

Justice Augustine George Masih, who was also on the bench, concurred with the observations while hearing a case related to the right to shelter for homeless persons in urban areas. Justice Gavai emphasized the need to integrate homeless individuals into society so that they can contribute to the nation's growth.

Citing the Maharashtra government’s Ladli Bahin Yojana, Justice Gavai pointed out that such initiatives discourage employment. The Ladli Bahin Yojana provides financial assistance of Rs 1,500 per month to eligible women. However, Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing the petitioners, countered the argument, stating that everyone is willing to work if given the opportunity.

Justice Gavai, reflecting on his personal experience, responded, "You must have only one-sided knowledge. I come from an agricultural family. Due to freebies announced in Maharashtra ahead of elections, agriculturists struggle to find laborers."

Meanwhile, Attorney General R. Venkataramani, representing the central government, informed the court that a comprehensive mission for urban poverty alleviation is being finalized. This initiative aims to address multiple concerns, including shelter for the urban homeless. The bench directed the Attorney General to gather information from all states to develop a nationwide approach.

The issue of freebies was previously highlighted in a PIL filed by Advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay on August 3, 2022. The petition argued that the distribution of irrational freebies before elections unduly influences voters, disturbs the level playing field, compromises the purity of elections, and violates Articles 14, 162, 266(3), and 282 of the Constitution.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Union of India, contended that freebies distort informed voter decision-making. Acknowledging the complexity of the issue, the Supreme Court stressed the need for deliberation among all stakeholders. It directed that representatives from entities such as the RBI, NITI Aayog, opposition parties, and advocates both supporting and opposing freebies should engage in discussions. The court further suggested the formation of a specialized body to examine the matter and provide recommendations.

The Supreme Court had issued a notice in this case in January 2022.

Case Title: E.R. Kumar v. Union of India