The debate over government “freebies” has intensified as an election strategy with the recent Delhi and Maharashtra elections. When structured as targeted welfare, they serve as vital tools of social justice and economic redistribution. By ensuring marginalised communities have equitable access to necessities, these measures align with India’s constitutional vision of a just society. By putting disposable income in the hands of the poor, they boost demand for goods and services, leading to higher consumption and economic activity. Free bus travel for women in states like Delhi has increased female workforce participation, demonstrating how social interventions can lead to broader economic benefits. Despite all expenditure on subsidies, healthcare and education, the AAP government has set an example and maintained a revenue surplus economy, earning more revenue than it spends. Delhi’s debt to GDP ratio was also 3.9% as compared to an all-India average of 27.5%. The Supreme Court’s recent criticism of political parties announcing freebies fails to recognise India’s ground reality. In a country where economic inequality is stark, dismissing welfare programmes as handouts ignores their role in addressing systemic deprivation. While concerns over fiscal responsibility are valid, branding welfare recipients as ‘unmotivated’ disregards the persistent lack of opportunities that necessitate such support in the first place.
