Supreme Court on Pre-poll Freebies
The Supreme Court has expressed strong disapproval of pre-poll freebies offered by political parties, suggesting they discourage people from working and contribute little to national development.
Impact of Freebies
- Freebies create a "class of parasites" unwilling to work.
Ladki Bahin Scheme
- Under this scheme in Maharashtra, women aged 21-65 with an annual family income below Rs 2.5 lakh receive Rs 1,500 monthly.
- Such programs are seen as contributing to a lack of willingness to work among agricultural workers in the state.
Public Interest Litigation
- The court reviewed a petition seeking shelter for the urban homeless, highlighting the poor state of existing shelters.
- Justice Gavai emphasized the fundamental right to shelter despite arguing that freebies discourage work.
Government Response
- Attorney General R Venkataramani mentioned that the government is developing schemes to reduce urban poverty.
- The government has been tasked to submit an affidavit within six weeks detailing its plans and implementation strategies.
Shelter Homes in Delhi
- Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) claims night shelters are well-equipped, though Bhushan argues demand exceeds supply.
- Nine shelters were demolished, and six were abandoned due to the 2023 Yamuna floods.
Historical Context of Freebies
- The issue of freebies was previously addressed in 2022, where petitions seeking a ban were referred to a three-judge bench.
- This case is still pending in the Supreme Court.
