Interview Times 
A plea was filed in court seeking to classify freebies as a form of bribery. After coming across this news, I had some thoughts on the issue of freebies:
Freebies are like termites on wood—they work slowly, and the damage becomes apparent only after it’s too late. NK Singh, Chairperson of the Fifteenth Finance Commission, warned that India may face the risk of sub-national bankruptcies if States continue offering freebies to win over voters. Unemployment and slow development are significant outcomes of freebies, as benefits granted to certain groups place a heavy burden on taxpayers, particularly the middle class.
Many schemes have legalized the distribution of freebies in such a way that they cannot be questioned, especially when included in election manifestos. Sri Lanka stands as a stark example of how continuous reliance on freebies can lead to national bankruptcy. Prolonged distribution of freebies can severely impact government finances, forcing cuts in essential areas like education, infrastructure, and healthcare.
Often, freebies end up benefiting those who don’t truly need them, diverting resources away from critical needs. They also provide political parties an opportunity to manipulate voters and gain power. While freebies shouldn’t be outright labeled as bribes, it’s essential to manage them responsibly to avoid becoming a national threat. Balancing welfare with sustainable policies is crucial to safeguard the country’s economic health.
