Freebies are winning elections

With #BJP winning #Delhi, the electoral landscape might witness rampant repercussions. However, a more intriguing pattern is emerging across state elections — #freebies are winning votes!
Every political party promises an enticing list of free schemes, attracting voters who may not fully grasp the long-term consequences.

Budget Strains and Populist Measures
Take Delhi, for instance — a state that traditionally has a budget surplus. With the latest list of freebies, the state budget faces two options:
Slip into a deficit or Increase taxes to fund these populist schemes!
Karnataka presents a cautionary tale. Freebies have stalled crucial infrastructure projects, and the government has resorted to increasing fuel prices and taxes to foot the bill.

Once a freebie is given, it's politically dangerous to take it back. Karnataka's government has repeatedly toyed with the idea of rolling back the free bus scheme for women. Fearing backlash no one seems to be even talking about it, even as bus corporations inch closer to financial ruin.

A Stark Contrast: State vs. National Elections
Interestingly, while state elections thrive on freebie culture, national elections remain largely devoid of it.

The Taxpayer's Burden
With the recent Union Budget from the next financial year, less than 1% of the population would pay income tax, there's little political incentive to care for this minority. Yet somehow, these taxpayers are continued to be milked to keep funding the populist schemes of subsequent governments, without getting any tangible benefit!

Have you personally benefited from any state government freebie scheme? Do share your experiences!