New Delhi, February 19 The Supreme Court on Thursday criticised the practice of providing freebies, stating that it was time to reconsider policies that hinder the country's economic development.
Taking note of the plea filed by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd, which proposed to provide free electricity to all, regardless of their financial status, the top court said it was understandable if states assisted the poor.
"Most of the states in the country are facing revenue deficits, and yet they are offering such freebies, overlooking development," said a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi.
The bench stated that such distribution of largesse hampers the nation's economic development, and states should focus on creating employment opportunities instead of providing free food, cycles, and electricity to everyone.
However, the Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre and others regarding the plea filed by the DMK government-led power distribution firm, which proposes to provide free electricity.
The power firm has challenged a rule in the Electricity Amendment Rules, 2024.
"What kind of culture are we developing in India? It is understandable that as part of welfare measures, you want to provide electricity to those who cannot afford it," the bench asked.
"But without drawing a distinction between those who can afford and those who cannot, you start distributing. Will this not amount to appeasing policy?" the CJI asked.
The bench inquired as to why the Tamil Nadu firm suddenly decided to loosen its purse strings after the electricity tariff was notified.
"The states should focus on creating employment opportunities. If you start providing 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 said.
The bench stated that instead of spending on development projects, states are engaged in two jobs - paying salaries and distributing largesse.