'Who will pay for it?': SC raps Tamil Nadu govt for promising free electricity; flags 'freebie' politics

The Supreme Court, on Thursday, expressed its disapproval of the Tamil Nadu government's promise to provide free electricity to consumers, questioning the financial sustainability of such assurances. The bench emphasized the importance of understanding who ultimately bears the cost of these 'freebies' and the potential burden on the state's economy. The justices highlighted the need for transparency in financial governance, urging the state to consider the long-term implications of such populist measures. The court's remarks come amid growing concerns about the trend of offering free utilities as a means to garner political support. While acknowledging the intent to aid economically disadvantaged sections, the bench warned against the indiscriminate allocation of resources without a clear funding strategy. This scrutiny of Tamil Nadu's electricity board underscores a broader debate on balancing welfare initiatives with fiscal responsibility. This incident is part of a larger national discourse on the politics of freebies, with the judiciary increasingly stepping in to question the prudence of such promises. The Supreme Court's intervention highlights the need for state governments to devise sustainable policies that do not compromise economic stability. As political parties continue to navigate the delicate balance between populism and pragmatism, the court's observations may serve as a critical reminder of the financial realities underpinning governance.

— Authored by Next24 Live