In politics, some identify as right-wing, others as left, and some as centrists. The pertinent question arises: will future elections drift from ideology to become all about freebies? As Delhi gears up for the assembly elections on February 5, political parties are in a frenzy, heavily marketing their freebie promises.
The AAP, BJP, and Congress have collectively announced approximately Rs 21,000 crore in free incentives in Delhi. With a budget of Rs 78,800 crore, the budget for free promises could soon surpass Rs 25,000 crore, making it seem like a bidding war for votes rather than a policy-driven election.
Promises for Students in Delhi Elections
Where previously parties issued manifestos outlining their vision for development, they now make promises in installments, influenced by the scale of each other's freebie promises. Arvind Kejriwal announces new promises at daily press conferences, while BJP has unveiled its manifesto in two parts. Kejriwal promised free bus rides for students, Congress pledged an Rs 8,500 monthly apprenticeship stipend for unemployed youth, and BJP committed to free education from KG to PG for needy students in governmental institutions.
Source: aajtak
Furthermore, BJP promises direct aid of Rs 15,000 to competitive exam aspirants, with free bus rides and form fees for two attempts. Meanwhile, Kejriwal pledged to form a welfare board for the washermen community, promising residential-rate water and electricity. BJP has promised welfare boards for house helps, insurance for auto drivers, and scholarships, along with maternity benefits for women.
Source: aajtak
Rs 11,000 Crore in Subsidies in Delhi
With election day approaching, political promises continue unabated. Why such emphasis on free schemes in Delhi? The lower population density compared to other states makes the implementation of these schemes easier. As seen, promises in Delhi by the AAP remain unfulfilled in Punjab due to higher population and costs.
Delhi's subsidy budget for 2024-25 has climbed to Rs 11,000 crore, marking a 607% increase over a decade, primarily due to free electricity and other benefits. The AAP's push for 200 free electricity units now costs Rs 3,600 crore annually. Congress's promise of free 300 units could spike costs by an additional Rs 1,000 crore, increasing the subsidy budget to Rs 4,600 crore.
Source: aajtak
Delhi Jal Board Subsidies Soar
Under AAP, free water up to 20,000 liters remains, albeit with questions about quality. The BJP's commitment to extend water and electricity plans persists. Initially, the water subsidy was Rs 21 crore and has now inflated to Rs 500 crore, a 2300% rise over a decade. Free bus travel for women before the 2020 elections further boosted subsidy costs.
Potential Rs 21,000 Crore Freebie Expense?
Currently, Rs 21,000 crore of Delhi's Rs 78,800 crore budget would address free schemes, leaving limited funds for infrastructure. Parties appear more focused on cash incentives than political representation for women, offering only limited political participation.
Source: aajtak
The research indicates that promising Rs 2,500 to women monthly would require Rs 11,400 crore annually, straining governmental resources intended for necessary public services.
