Supreme Court Slams States: Have Funds for Freebies, Not for Judges' Pay

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Supreme Court recently criticized state governments for prioritizing election freebies over addressing the salaries and pensions of judges. A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih expressed concerns while hearing a plea filed by the All India Judges Association which highlighted the inadequacy of remuneration and retirement benefits for justices in the country.

The court pointed out instances like Maharashtra’s 'Ladki Bahin' scheme and similar initiatives by political parties in Delhi as examples of extravagant promises made during elections. The bench remarked, “States often claim financial constraints when it comes to paying judges but during elections, they announce freebies like Maharashtra’s 'Ladki Bahin' and Delhi’s financial aid schemes for women.”

In Delhi, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has introduced the 'Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana,' promising ₹2,100 monthly assistance to women if it wins a third consecutive term in the upcoming Assembly elections. Similarly, the Delhi Congress has pledged ₹2,500 monthly aid to women as part of its campaign to secure power in the state. The Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for February 5 will see polling in a single phase across 70 constituencies. The results will be declared on February 8. Nominations for candidates close on January 17 with scrutiny set for January 18.