Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TH
Context: The Supreme Court ruled that promises in a political party’s manifesto benefiting the public financially are not corrupt practices. This decision came from an appeal challenging the election of B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan, a Congress candidate, in the 2023 Karnataka Assembly election.
The petitioner argued that such promises were corrupt, but the court found this view too “far-fetched,” stating that policy commitments leading to financial benefits for the public are legitimate and not corrupt practices.
What is an Election Manifesto?
An election manifesto is a published declaration of a political party’s intentions, views, policies, and programs, often released before elections to inform voters.
What are Freebies?
It refers to goods and services like bicycles, smartphones, and bill waivers offered by parties. Unlike subsidies, which are essential for governance, freebies aim to attract voters.
The Supreme Court, in the 2013 S Subramaniam Balaji vs Government of Tamil Nadu case, noted that unrealistic poll promises and freebies disrupt fair elections but do not constitute corrupt practices under the law.
