Introduction
To assume power, political parties resort to appeasing and luring the masses by declaring a horde of freebies in their election manifestos. For example, assured monthly income, free electricity and water supply.
There is a divided opinion on freebies.
Argument in favour
There are some expectations of the people at large from the state. In India, a majority still live below the poverty line. And if a party in power incurs expenses for the upliftment of the poor, it would be the right thing to do. Provided it is within the scope of the budget and does not skew the expenditures.
Arguments in opposition
The financial health of most of our states is not very good. Freebies may render the state government too dependent on the Centre. One has to understand the limitations of the Union as well.
Conclusion
All the stakeholders should act judiciously. On one hand, political parties should evaluate the feasibility of their manifestos, the Election Commission should also review these.
On the other hand, people at large should also cast their informed votes devoid of the attraction towards glittering freebies.