POLL PROMISES | IAS GYAN

POLL PROMISES

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The Election Commission of India has proposed changes to manifesto guidelines under the model code of conduct regarding poll promises.
The proposed change requires political parties to specify how they will arrange resources for the implementation of the poll promises.
The Election Commission proposed disclosures about the promises and their implementation that would help voters make informed choices.
The proposal comes as the result of the debate over freebies, the Supreme Court also hearing a petition seeking regulation of freebies.

Details

During election time, Political parties make promises to the voters to provide free electricity/water supply, monthly allowance for the unemployed, laptops, smartphones, etc.
These steps are justified as there has been rising inequality in our country, therefore some kind of relief to the population needs to be provided.
It promotes socio-economic Growth: Public Distribution System, employment guarantee schemes, and support for the social sector: education and health.

Concern

Freebies can hurt macroeconomic stability, it distorts expenditure priorities.
Negative impact on the public exchequer and most of the states of India do not have strong financial health.
Against Free and Fair Election
It would lead to the overuse of natural resources, Ex- Free water, electricity, etc.

Way Forward

Need to understand the socio-economic impact of state support on the economy, life quality, and social cohesion in the long run.
Need to Differentiate between Subsidies and Freebies, as targeted subsidies are justified to promote socio-economic development and reduce inequality and for promoting sustainable development, however, irrational freebies need to be regulated as they could challenge the economic stability of the nation.