In a significant development, the Bombay High Court has asked the Maharashtra government to respond to a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the distribution of free gifts by political parties.
The PIL, filed by a concerned public, expresses concern over the practice of providing free goods and services during elections.
She argues that this distorts the democratic process and imposes an undue financial burden on the state economy.
The petitioners argue that distribution of free gifts violates the constitutional principles of equality and fair play as it influences voter behaviour through material incentives rather than politics and governance.
They argue that such practices, if left unchecked, could divert resources from key areas like health, education and infrastructure development, leading to misuse of public funds.
The Maharashtra government was instructed by the Bombay High Court to present its affidavit and provide an explanation of its position on the matter at the hearing. The court questioned the sustainability of the practice and its compatibility with the constitutional obligation to advance the welfare of all citizens. Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya's panel emphasized the need to draw a clear line between election-season giveaways that could jeopardize democracy and genuine social programs.
The Maharashtra government has been given a deadline to file a response.
The case touches on a sensitive issue and could set an important precedent for how political parties across India use state resources in their election strategies.
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