Though welfarism is as old as human civilisation, in contemporary times we find a sharp rise in the need for social protection and welfare provisions. Though the welfare states in the west came to rescue their citizens from the market failures and socio-economic disparities, it took a very different trajectory in the Global South suffering from colonial legacy and abject poverty. They had very little to redistribute from the affluent to the poor and needy people, comprising the majority.
Many states tried to provide support to weaker sections of society through cash transfer or free education, health care and other essential services but failed to do so adequately. Though the welfare provisions are supposed to be long-lasting, freebies aim at pleasing the voters before elections. The questions arise: do freebies serve the purpose of welfare schemes? Often the political parties pledge substantial loan waivers before elections or promise certain new facilities or jobs without accessing the likely costs or feasibility of such promises. We also find a lack of dynamics between the economists and politicians or a broad debate over the desirability or legal possibility of freebies.
This panel seeks papers dealing with questions, such as, do freebies really help in winning elections? Is such expenditure out of taxes generated desirable and sustainable in the long run? Can freebie be equated with some other welfare provisions related to subsidized education, transport or health services? Can the judiciary override executive and legislative branches? Can the Election Commission stop the misuse of freebies as bribe? Who can ensure the accountability of false/lucrative promises made at the time of elections? Who can be held responsible for enforcing freebies to reap political dividends? How can we deal with controversies over freebies in the current times, etc. There can be case be studies as well as comparative studies. Based upon two or more countries belonging to Global South or Comparative Studies based upon western versus developing countries.
