The Supreme Court on Thursday, 19 February 2026, pulled up the DMK government over its proposal to provide free electricity to consumers irrespective of their financial status, questioning the sustainability of such measures and flagging concerns over “freebie” politics.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued notice to the Centre and other parties on a plea relating to the DMK government’s proposal to offer free electricity. During the hearing, the court expressed concern over what it described as a growing culture of largesse adopted by states and political parties, warning that it could hamper economic development.
“The economic development of the nation will be hampered with this kind of largesse distribution. Yes, it is the State’s duty to provide. But the ones who are enjoying freebies.. is it not something that should be looked at?” Chief Justice Surya Kant orally observed.
The court noted that several states in the country are already revenue deficit, yet continue to announce welfare schemes without clearly addressing their fiscal implications.
“We know states where there is free electricity even if you are big landlord.. you keep lights on..machines on etc. If you want to have a facility you pay for it. But this money which state says will pay now… Who will pay for it? This is the tax money,” the Chief Justice said.
The Bench also remarked that welfare schemes are often announced just ahead of elections. It clarified that the issue was not confined to Tamil Nadu alone.
“We are not on Tamil Nadu context only. We are on the fact that why are schemes being announced just before elections. All political parties, sociologists need to revisit ideology. How long will this continue?” the Chief Justice observed.
Justice Joymalya Bagchi, who was also part of the Bench, added, “It’s not one State we are talking about, it’s about all States. It is planned expenditure. Why don’t you make Budget proposals and give justification that this is my outlay on unemployment of people.”
The court’s observations come amid broader national debate on the fiscal impact of welfare schemes and pre-election announcements by state governments. Further proceedings in the matter are awaited.
Source: Times of India
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