International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160   •   Impact Factor: 9.24

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Freebies in Democratic Politics: Welfare Instrument or Electoral Populism?

Author(s) Mr. Vivek Suman, Prof. Dr. Praveen Kumar
Country India
Abstract The growing prominence of freebies in democratic electoral politics has emerged as a significant subject of academic, economic, and judicial debate. In India, electoral promises involving free electricity, water, transport, loan waivers, and direct benefit transfers have increasingly shaped political competition. While advocates regard such measures as instruments of social welfare and redistributive justice, critics argue that they represent a form of electoral populism that compromises fiscal discipline and democratic accountability. This paper critically examines the role of freebies in democratic politics with particular reference to India. It analyses the conceptual distinction between welfare and populism, explores constitutional and judicial interpretations, evaluates fiscal and economic implications, and assesses the broader impact of freebies on democratic governance. The study contends that freebies are not inherently incompatible with welfare objectives; however, their unchecked and electorally motivated deployment poses serious challenges to sustainable development and democratic ethics. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for a balanced framework that aligns welfare commitments with fiscal responsibility and institutional accountability.
Keywords Freebies, Welfare State, Electoral Populism, Fiscal Responsibility, Indian Democracy
Published In Volume 8, Issue 1, January-February 2026
Published On 2026-01-19
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i01.66835
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E-ISSN 2582-2160
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