The 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections featured extensive promises of freebies by major political parties, raising significant concerns about fiscal sustainability and the nature of welfare versus electoral incentives. Both the Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (AIADMK) presented manifestos laden with offers intended to appeal to a broad electorate. These promises, while framed as welfare measures by the parties, have sparked debate regarding their long-term impact on the state's finances and the genuine needs of the voters.
Election Manifestos and Promised Freebies
In the run-up to the April 2021 polls, both the DMK and AIADMK converged on a strategy of offering free items and financial waivers to attract voters. The DMK, led by MK Stalin, announced a range of benefits including tablets or PCs with 4G connections and 10 GB of data for every school student. Additionally, the DMK promised Rs 1,000 to every woman holding a Ration Card, financial assistance for pilgrimages to Hindu temples ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 1 lakh, and a waiver of various loans. The party also pledged to reserve 75% of jobs for locals and provide Rs 4,000 relief to Covid-19-affected rice Ration Card holders.
The AIADMK, seeking a third consecutive term, matched and often exceeded these offers. They promised free washing machines and solar cookers (also referred to as solar stoves), along with government jobs for one person in every household lacking a state service member. For students, the AIADMK offered 2 GB of data per day to college students. Financially, they assured Rs 1,500 to every woman with a Ration Card, which was Rs 500 more than the DMK’s promise. The party also included education loan waivers and housing for all in their manifesto. Both parties committed to phased prohibition, despite the state's reliance on liquor sales for revenue.
Historical Context of Freebies in Tamil Nadu
The culture of distributing freebies during elections in Tamil Nadu has a long history, often credited to the Dravidian parties. The trend is said to have started with the DMK founder, CN Annadurai, who in 1967 promised 4.5 kg of rice for Re 1. This was followed by various other offers over the decades. In 2006, the DMK promised free color television sets, which set a precedent for future elections. Subsequent elections saw parties offering free laptops, milch cows, mixer-grinders, and gold for thalis (mangal sutras). This competitive populism has continued, with parties constantly trying to outdo each other with increasingly elaborate promises.
Financial Implications and State Coffers
A major point of contention regarding these freebies is their impact on the state's finances. Experts have flagged serious financial implications, noting that Tamil Nadu is already burdened with high debts. The "free of cost" tag used in manifestos is a politically correct term for what are essentially doles that drain the treasury. The cost of these promises is ultimately borne by the taxpayer. As one report noted, it is akin to "putting money in your left pocket by taking it out from your right pocket."
Continuous distribution of freebies can lead to a debt spiral, throwing governments into financial distress. For instance, Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy reportedly spent Rs 1.62 lakh crore under various freebie schemes. In Tamil Nadu, the concern is that the state's coffers, largely filled by liquor sales, might face a strain if prohibition is implemented while simultaneously funding these expensive promises. The Supreme Court has also expressed concern, flagging that political parties announce unsustainable schemes without clarity on funding sources.
Voter Perspectives and Demand for Development
While parties continue to offer freebies, voter sentiment appears to be evolving. In Krishnagiri, voters expressed disillusionment with past promises. Many stated they have realized that promises of government jobs or free washing machines are unlikely to materialize or may not be useful. Instead, there is a growing demand for an environment that fosters industrial growth, thereby creating actual employment opportunities. Prem Kumar, a 26-year-old diploma holder working as a daily wage laborer, exemplified this sentiment by stating, "We don't need false promises... Let the government create an environment for industries to thrive and we will find jobs." This indicates a shift in voter priorities from immediate freebies to long-term economic stability and job creation.
The Debate: Freebies vs. Welfare Schemes
The distribution of free items during elections has sparked a nationwide debate, often framed as "freebies vs. welfare schemes." Critics, including the Prime Minister, have referred to this as the 'Revdi culture,' arguing it hinders economic development. Conversely, proponents argue that freebies serve crucial social functions. They point to poverty alleviation and social protection, citing examples like free food distribution during the pandemic that benefited millions. Welfare initiatives such as free housing, toilets, and healthcare are seen as helping the underprivileged escape extreme deprivation. Free electricity and water are argued to improve living standards and boost human development through better access to education and health. Furthermore, schemes like free public transport for women can increase workforce participation and financial independence, indirectly stimulating economic growth and reducing income disparities.
Conclusion
The 2021 Tamil Nadu elections highlighted the entrenched culture of freebie promises in Indian politics. While the DMK and AIADMK offered extensive packages ranging from digital devices to cash handouts and household goods, these promises have raised valid concerns about fiscal health and debt management. Voters, however, are increasingly vocal about their preference for sustainable development and job creation over temporary material benefits. The ongoing debate underscores the need for a balanced approach that addresses immediate welfare needs without compromising long-term economic stability.