Published Feb 19, 2026 | 5:10 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 19, 2026 | 5:10 PM
Supreme Court
Synopsis: Despite being revenue-deficient, most states were offering freebies, the court noted. It inquired why a specific portion of the revenue collected could not be allocated for development.
Coming down heavily on the political parties-nurtured freebie culture in India, the Supreme Court on Thursday, 19 February, called for revisiting such policies.
Noting that the freebie culture hampered economic development, a Bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and justices Joymala Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi said parties should introduce planned policies, providing measures to improve people’s lives.
The court’s observation came while considering a petition by the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd, which proposed free electricity for all regardless of their financial status.
Despite being revenue-deficient, most states were offering such freebies, the court noted. “It is the state’s duty to provide. But the ones who are enjoying freebies… is it not something that should be looked at?” the Chief Justice asked.
Clarifying that it was referring to all states, the court asked why 25% of the revenue collected could not be allocated for development.
The court came down on Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd for suddenly loosening its purse strings after announcing the power tariff. It said the states were spending on paying salaries and distributing such benefits instead of funding development projects.
“What kind of culture are we developing in India?… But without distinguishing between those who can afford and those who cannot, you start distributing. Will it not amount to an appeasing policy?” the CJI asked.
Tamil Nadu will be electing a new Assembly in a couple of months.
