NHRC Chairperson Justice Arun Mishra calls for law to stop election freebies

Justice Arun Kumar Mishra, Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), said that the practice of political parties promising freebies during elections needs to be curbed by enacting appropriate law. .He suggested that the distinction between legitimate promises and those equivalent to alluring voters through freebies should be determined at an appropriate level and forum, even if it necessitates specific legislation."Time has come to distinguish between the promise made to voters to create an egalitarian social order envisaged by Chapter 4 (of the Indian Constitution) and when freebies promised would be equivalent to alluring voters via forbidden means in elections. The same needs to be determined at the appropriate level and forum. If necessary, by specific legislation," Justice Mishra said..The former Supreme Court judge was speaking at the Plenary session of the Constitution Day celebrations organised by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice..The former Supreme Court judge also highlighted the impact of letter petitions and public interest litigation (PILs) petitions in bringing about positive reforms. However, he cautioned against their misuse for political purposes, urging a stop to such practices. To further the constitutional goal, he emphasized the need for free and fair elections, condemning violence in the democratic process. Justice Mishra emphasized that fair elections are recognized as a fundamental human right."Entertaining letter petitions and PILs had brought several reforms. PIL is useful; however, its misuse for political purposes must stop. To realize the goal of the Constitution, we must ensure free and fair, violence-free elections. Violence has no place in the democratic process. Fair election is recognized as a human right," he said..He also emphasized the need for affirmative actions to uplift marginalized sections, particularly within Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and backward classes.Acknowledging the positive impact of existing measures, Justice Mishra highlighted that some deprived segments within these communities still require additional support such as reservations in order to ensure a level playing field.Justice Mishra also underscored the importance of gender justice for comprehensive development. He called for a redefinition of gender equality, stressing that women continue to face discrimination.He also emphasized on the importance of granting women equal civil and inheritance rights, access to education, property ownership, and employment opportunities."Gender justice is necessary for meaningful development. The time has come to define the phrase gender equality. Women are still discriminated against. They must enjoy the same civil and other rights like inheritance rights, holding properties, education, and employment," he said..Justice Mishra also praised the role of an independent and effective judiciary in upholding justice and fortifying constitutional provisions. He noted that justice should be the cornerstone of all institutions including the executive branch on administrative fronts.