“What Kind of Culture Are We Developing?” Supreme Court Slams Freebies Culture

The Supreme Court on Thursday strongly criticised the growing culture of giving “freebies,” saying it is time to review such policies because they can harm the country’s economic development.

The court was hearing a plea by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd, which has proposed to provide free electricity to all consumers, regardless of their financial condition. The judges said it is understandable if states help poor people, but giving benefits to everyone without checking who really needs them is not right.

A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi, said that most states in India are already facing financial losses. Despite this, they continue to offer free schemes while ignoring development work.

The court said that instead of spending money on free food, free cycles, and free electricity for all, states should focus on creating job opportunities. It warned that such large-scale giveaways can slow down the nation’s economic growth.

However, the court issued a notice to the Centre and other parties on the plea filed by the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government’s power company, which has challenged a rule under the Electricity Amendment Rules, 2024.

“What kind of culture are we developing in India? It is understandable that as part of the welfare measure you want to provide to those who are incapable of paying the electricity charges,” the bench asked.

“But without distinguishing between those who can afford and those who cannot, you start distributing. Will it not amount to an appeasing policy?” the CJI asked.

The bench also asked why the Tamil Nadu power company decided to announce free electricity after new electricity tariffs had already been fixed.

The Chief Justice further said that if governments continue to provide free benefits from morning to evening, it could affect people’s willingness to work. 

The court observed that many states primarily spend money on paying salaries and distributing freebies rather than investing in development projects.

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