February 12, 2025: The Supreme Court has made scathing remarks against the growing trend of political parties announcing freebies ahead of elections, questioning whether such schemes are discouraging people from working and contributing to the nation’s development.

A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih made these observations while hearing a case related to the right to shelter for homeless individuals in urban areas. The judges noted that people were receiving free ration and financial assistance without any labor input, leading to a dependency culture.

"Rather than promoting them to be a part of the mainstream society by contributing to the development of the nation, are we not creating a class of parasites?" the bench asked.

Justice Gavai specifically referred to Maharashtra’s ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme—under which women aged 21-65 with an annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh receive ₹1,500 per month—along with similar schemes implemented by various state governments. He expressed concern that such election-driven announcements were making people unwilling to work.

"Unfortunately, because of these freebies, people are not willing to work... They are getting free ration and money without doing any work," Justice Gavai said.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing one of the petitioners, countered the argument, stating that most people in the country were willing to work if given the opportunity. However, Justice Gavai interrupted him, citing his personal experience in Maharashtra.

"You must be having only one-sided knowledge. I come from an agricultural family. Because of the freebies announced just prior to elections, agriculturists are not getting laborers," he remarked.

The court's observations come at a time when welfare schemes have become a significant tool for political parties to garner votes. While supporters argue that such schemes provide relief to economically weaker sections, critics warn of long-term economic consequences and dependency.

The debate over freebies continues to be a contentious issue in Indian politics, with the judiciary now weighing in on its impact on the country's workforce and economic growth.