Freebies Debate: Is your tax for free distribution? Here's what the public thinks

Freebies have become a big political issue whenever elections are held in the country, and are reportedly exploited by political parties. During elections, parties use it a lot to gain the trust of voters. At the same time, subsidies and welfare schemes are also very important for the poor section in democracy, so that the weaker section of the country does not get left behind in the path of development and prosperity. 

Many times these schemes are seen as freebies, and questions are raised regarding this. At the same time, many times political parties also misuse it. This issue is so relevant that it has been discussed even in the Supreme Court. The big question is what does the general public think about it? Also, what is the opinion of experts and journalists about it? We have held a debate on this issue and many important opinions have come to the fore in this panel debate. Different journalists of DNA put forth their views.

The core issue of this debate shows that if you are a taxpayer in India, like many of us, you too must be concerned about how the government spends your hard earned money. This question is very relevant especially in the era of politics of freebies. Well, call it free electricity, laptops and cash transfer welfare schemes or politics of freebies run any scheme to get votes. But, no matter how narrowly you cut it, there will always be two sides and today DNA brings you a special debate show to discuss the burning question in the country, is my tax for freebies distribution? The show was hosted by DNA reporter Vikas Mavi.

Journalists put forth their views

In the debate, DNA journalist Abhimanyu Mathur put forth his argument in favour of the policy of freebies. He said that 'why immediate relief is important, short-term benefits in terms of concessions help the most marginalised sections of society, who cannot even afford two meals a day, they prevent them from falling further into poverty and enable them to escape from moneylenders. 

At the same time, Aditya Prakash said that the policy of freebies should benefit only the needy people. Aditya also said that there should be no politics about this. Aditya further said that 'many times even capable people take advantage of such facilities, which is wrong.' 

Journalist Riya Sharma said that bad economic structure if done for immediate short-term benefits, free distribution schemes can create a bad structure leading to wrong decisions. 

Pravrajya Suruchi said that freebies are necessary for inclusion in economic activity. Without resources like free electricity, free cooking gas, many individuals and families will have no platform to participate in economic activities and increase economic mobility. This will widen the gap between the rich and the poor.