Are we not creating a class of parasites? Top Court slams freebies promised before polls

The Supreme Court on Wednesday criticised the practice of political parties announcing "freebies" just before elections, questioning whether such measures were fostering dependency instead of encouraging citizens to contribute to national development.

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A bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih expressed concerns about the growing reliance on government handouts. "Rather than promoting them to be a part of the mainstream of the society by contributing to the development of the nation, are we not creating a class of parasites?" Justice Gavai asked.

Justice Gavai further remarked, "Unfortunately, because of these freebies, which are just on the anvil of elections, like 'Ladki Bahin' and other schemes, people are not willing to work."

The observations were made during a hearing on the right to shelter for homeless persons in urban areas. The bench noted that people were receiving free rations and money without working, which, in its view, discouraged labour participation.

"We quite appreciate your concern for them, but would it not be better to make them a part of the mainstream of society and permit them to contribute to the development of the nation?" the bench asked.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing one of the petitioners, countered this argument, stating that people were willing to work if jobs were available. "There is hardly anybody in the country who does not want to work, if they had work," he said.