The Impact Of Political Freebies Dmks 2021 Election Promises And Indias Freebie Culture Debate

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During the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) made numerous promises of free goods and services to voters as part of its election manifesto. Led by MK Stalin, the DMK made approximately 500 promises aimed at appealing to a wide range of voters across different socioeconomic backgrounds. Key promises included free data tabs with 4G connections and 10GB of data for students at government schools and colleges, reduction in fuel prices, financial assistance to women holding ration cards, relief for those affected by COVID-19, and various loan waivers.

These promises existed within a competitive political environment where the DMK's main rival, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), responded with counter-promises that often exceeded the DMK's offerings in value. The AIADMK promised free washing machines, solar stoves, higher financial assistance to women (Rs 1,500 compared to the DMK's Rs 1,000), housing for all, solar cookers, education loan waivers, and government jobs to families without anyone in state service. Both parties also converged on certain issues, such as promising phased prohibition in a state whose government revenue was significantly dependent on liquor sales.

The practice of political parties offering free goods and services to voters has deep historical roots in India. The culture began in 1967 when DMK founder C.N. Annadurai promised 4.5 kg of rice for Re 1. In 2006, under M. Karunanidhi's leadership, the DMK promised free color television sets, setting a trend for increasingly elaborate promises in subsequent elections. Over time, the nature of freebies has evolved to include laptops, milch cows, mixer-grinders, gold for wedding thalis, gas stoves, cash handouts, and other items.

A central concern surrounding political freebies is their impact on state finances. Tamil Nadu, like many Indian states, already grapples with high levels of debt, and the cost of implementing numerous freebie schemes places additional strain on public finances. Economic experts note that freebies can disrupt state budgets and potentially throw governments into a debt spiral, with the costs ultimately borne by taxpayers. In other Indian states, the financial impact has become evident; for example, Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister reported spending Rs 1.62 lakh crore under various freebie schemes.

The issue of political freebies has drawn judicial and political attention. In 2013, the Supreme Court observed that such freebies unduly influence the electorate and hamper free and fair elections, directing the Election Commission to formulate guidelines to discourage this tendency. However, these guidelines have had limited success. More recently, the debate gained national prominence with a Supreme Court petition arguing that parties promising freebies should have their recognition cancelled. Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized what he termed the "revdi culture" (a Hindi reference to free distribution of sweets), stating it hinders economic development, drawing criticism from opposition parties.

Public perception of political freebies is complex. While some voters appreciate immediate benefits, others express skepticism about implementation. During the 2021 Tamil Nadu elections, some voters voiced disillusionment with unfulfilled past promises, with one individual noting, "We don't need false promises of government jobs or free washing machines which we may not even use. Let the government create an environment for industries to thrive and we will find jobs."

The debate over freebies encompasses several perspectives. Critics argue they create unsustainable financial burdens, prioritize short-term gains over long-term planning, and undermine electoral integrity. Proponents contend they serve as tools for poverty alleviation, provide essential services to the underprivileged, address socioeconomic inequalities, enhance human development, and stimulate economic growth.

Conclusion

The DMK's 2021 election promises represent both a continuation of India's long-standing freebie culture and an escalation in competitive political offerings. While these promises may appeal to voters seeking immediate relief, they raise significant questions about financial sustainability and long-term economic planning. The debate over freebies reflects tensions between welfare needs and fiscal responsibility, political competition and good governance, and short-term electoral gains versus long-term development objectives.

Sources

1. The Federal - AIADMK draws up freebies list, Krishnagiri voters ask of past promises
2. Deccan Herald - Experts flag financial implications over AIADMK-DMK's shower of freebies
3. Firstpost - Explained: The history of freebie culture that the AAP and Centre are fighting over
4. Outlook India - No let-up in the politics of freebies vs welfare schemes debate
5. ETV Bharat - Where will the freebie politics take Tamil Nadu?
6. PW Only IAS - Freebies Culture in India