Impractical Poll Promises – Vijay Is No Different?

Recently, the Supreme Court of India came down heavily on the ‘Freebies Culture’ in our country. The apex court slammed political parties for doling out various free schemes to the public for the sake of votes. But, there seems to be no end to this culture in the near future. 

Not just seasoned political leaders, even inexperienced and first timers also appear to be following the same time-tested poll strategy to secure votes and ultimately power without paying heed to the consequences on public exchequer. 

Joining the list is actor turned politician and TVK party chief Thalapathy Vijay who has just announced a spate of freebies to the women population of Tamil Nadu during his today’s speech. Speaking at the gathering of women cadres of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in Mahabalipuram, Vijay promised to look after the welfare of women unlike any party in the country. 

His promises are now the topic of discussion all over in the media and the political circles because they seem to be unrealistic and impractical as far as the succesful implementation is concerned. 

His announced 8 gram gold, silk saree to women beneficiaries for marriage, along with Rs 2,500 for women until age of 60 and free sanitary pads through ration shops, schools and colleges. He also assured free 6-cooking gas cylinders in a year and Free bus travel in all govt-run buses for women. He promised a gold ring to each newborn child born in TN after coming to power. 

He declared that interest-free allocation of upto Rs 5 lakh for women SHGs will be provided by his government and fast-track courts will be established to ensure speedy trial of cases against women. And also promised to provide smart panic buttons’ in public transport for women safety. 

While some of these women centric schemes seem feasible and practical, those requiring heavy funding from the government coffers appear far-fetched and difficult to implement as Tamil Nadu is also a cash strapped state like many other states in India due to deficit budget. 

With rising gold and natural gas prices, providing 8 grams each individual and six cylinders per year for every household will be extremely tough for the government. Moreover, providing 2500 for entire women population until 60 years would add huge strain on the finances. 

When many are expecting Vijay to come up with new-age politics by transforming key sectors like health, education and infrastructure, he shocked by announcing a flurry of populist schemes with the sole purpose of attracting votes like many other political leaders across the country. 

What is the initial public reaction on Vijay’s promises will be known in the coming days. But, we have to wait till the upcoming elections to know whether his style of politicking works or not.