DNA Edit: An end to entitlement

Reams have been written about the political class’s sense of entitlement. Except for a few cosmetic adjustments, the wealth, power and status of elected representatives have remained unaffected, much to the chagrin of the electorate whose struggle for survival has only intensified. Now the Supreme Court is trying to cut some of the privileges that legislators have shamelessly bestowed upon themselves. The top court has ruled that former chief ministers will have to vacate their official accommodation once their tenure in office ends. Though the Court order is a blow to the provision in Uttar Pradesh Ministers (Salaries, Allowances and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1981, that had legitimised such largesse, its effect will be felt in Assam and Bihar where similar stipulations exist. 

The SC was guided by the spirit of equality. A two-judge division bench observed that after relinquishing office, former CMs are at par with common citizens. If they are allowed to retain their bungalows, which are maintained with the taxpayers’ money, it means that a state government is allowing an arbitrary and discriminatory practice to continue. It is in violation of Article 14 of the Constitution that enshrines equality of citizens. The economic chasm between the people and the politicians have become so huge that bridging the gap has become impossible. 

Politics has become a means of furthering self-interests. When it comes to protecting their entitlements, parties across the spectrum can bury the hatchet to put up a unified fight. Issues such as the salaries of MPs or election-funding have catalysed an uncharacteristic show of solidarity with arch-rivals. None of the parties that ruled UP since 1981 had the moral fibre to strike down that clause. No wonder, before every election, voters have a difficult choice in terms of the quality of candidates.