Supreme Court Slams Freebie Culture as Judiciary Faces Financial Neglect
As the Delhi Assembly elections 2025 draw near, the Supreme Court has expressed deep concerns about the growing trend of election freebies, which, it argues, comes at the expense of critical sectors such as the judiciary.
Key Highlights:
Judiciary’s Financial Crisis Highlighted
During a hearing on a plea by the All India Judges Association, the Supreme Court bench, led by Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih, spotlighted the stark contrast between the financial neglect faced by the judiciary and the lavish promises made during elections.
“When it comes to paying judges, states often cite financial constraints. However, during elections, we see announcements of freebies like the ‘Ladki Bahin’ initiative and similar promises aimed at securing votes,” the bench remarked.
Freebie Promises in Delhi Assembly Elections
The Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for February 5, 2025, have seen political parties vying for voter attention with generous schemes:
- The ruling AAP introduced the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana, offering women ₹2,100 per month, contingent on securing a third consecutive term.
- In response, the Delhi Congress proposed its scheme, promising ₹2,500 per month to women if it comes to power.
These initiatives echo similar promises across India, such as the Ladki Bahin initiative launched in Maharashtra by the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition.
Judiciary vs Election Promises: A Growing Debate
The Supreme Court’s observations have sparked nationwide debate over the priorities of state governments. The judiciary, considered the backbone of democracy, struggles with inadequate salaries and retirement benefits, while political parties focus on populist measures to gain electoral advantage.
The apex court’s criticism also underscores the need for a balanced approach to resource allocation, ensuring essential services like the judiciary are not sidelined.
Important Dates for Delhi Assembly 2025
- Last date for filing nominations: January 17
- Scrutiny of nominations: January 18
- Polling date: February 5
- Counting of votes: February 8
The Supreme Court’s remarks on the freebie culture serve as a wake-up call for state governments to prioritize sustainable development and equitable resource distribution. As Delhi voters head to the polls, this debate is likely to resonate deeply, influencing public discourse and policy direction in the months to come.
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