Election Freebies: Short-Term Gain, Long-Term Pain

Written by Laranya Gaud, Law Student, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj University

In India, election season is one of the most controversial periods, raising questions about the fairness of the world’s largest democracy. Political parties often distribute “freebies” to influence voters, spending millions to secure support. This raises doubts about whether India’s elections are truly “free and fair.”

A 2019 survey by the Association for Democratic Reforms, covering 543 parliamentary constituencies, revealed that over 42% of voters consider cash, liquor, and freebies a primary reason to vote for a candidate—often above actual development plans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently labeled this trend as “Revadi Culture,” criticizing those who offer quick benefits instead of focusing on long-term infrastructure, like highways, airports, and defense projects. He argued that this culture is harmful to India’s development. Yet, despite PM Modi’s stance, political figures in his own alliance have implemented similar schemes. For example, former Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan introduced the “Ladli Behna Yojana” to appeal to women voters, while Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde announced the “Ladki Bahin Yojana,” offering Rs. 3000 monthly for women in the state.

The irony is stark—while PM Modi criticizes election freebies, schemes within his own coalition suggest otherwise. In Madhya Pradesh, the opposition Congress party also jumped in, promising Rs. 1500 and subsidized LPG cylinders to counter BJP’s initiative. They further proposed a “Padho Padhao Yojana,” providing monthly allowances for school children. Such schemes burden the state’s education budget, which could otherwise be used to improve rural education quality, provide teacher training, and expand the mid-day meal program.

This article doesn’t oppose all schemes or welfare programs but questions the timing and sustainability of such initiatives—especially when they appear only before elections. Why not focus on permanent, development-focused schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Rozgar Yojana (promoting employment for women) or the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (supporting rural housing development)?

This isn’t a problem specific to one party but rather a systemic flaw in Indian politics. Ultimately, Indian citizens—the foundation of this democracy—bear the cost of these short-sighted political strategies.