Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 19: The Supreme Court of India on Thursday came down heavily on what it termed the growing “freebies culture” in the country, observing that it was time to revisit such policies as they hamper long-term economic development.
Hearing a plea filed by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (TNPDCL), which has proposed to provide free electricity to all consumers irrespective of their financial status, the apex court said welfare measures must be targeted and financially prudent.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi observed that while it was understandable for states to support the poor, indiscriminate distribution of benefits raised serious concerns.
“Most of the states in the country are revenue deficit states and yet they are offering such freebies, overlooking development,” the bench remarked.
The court said that economic development of the nation gets hampered by unchecked largesse and emphasised that states should focus on creating employment opportunities instead of offering free food, bicycles and electricity to all sections of society.
“What kind of culture are we developing in India? It is understandable that as part of welfare measures you want to provide relief to those who are incapable of paying electricity charges. But without drawing a distinction between those who can afford and those who cannot, you start distributing. Will it not amount to an appeasing policy?” the Chief Justice asked.
The bench also questioned why the Tamil Nadu power utility decided to “loosen the purse strings” after the electricity tariff had already been notified.
“If you start giving free food from morning to evening, then free cycles, then free electricity, then who will work and what will happen to the work culture?” the CJI observed, adding that states often end up doing only two things — paying salaries and distributing largesse — instead of investing in development projects.
At the same time, the top court issued notice to the Centre and other respondents on the plea filed by the DMK government-led power distribution firm, which has challenged certain provisions of the Electricity Amendment Rules, 2024.
The matter is likely to be heard further after responses are filed by the parties concerned.