The Politics of Freebies

The promise of freebies during elections has emerged as a pivotal element of electoral politics in India. Over decades, this trend has grown from isolated instances to a deeply entrenched practice, with political parties competing to outdo each other in offering alluring benefits to voters. Free electricity, free healthcare, free education, and even free household appliances-these promises resonate with millions of voters, often transcending the boundaries of rational economic evaluation. Yet, these pledges, while appealing, raise critical questions about their sustainability, ethicality, and long-term consequences on governance and public finances.This book, The Politics of Freebies: Electoral Promises and Their Impact on Indian Democracy, delves into this phenomenon with a holistic approach. By tracing the historical evolution of freebies in Indian electoral politics, analyzing their socio-economic implications, and exploring their constitutional and legal dimensions, this work seeks to provide readers with a nuanced understanding of this complex issue.