Freebies Have Funds, But Not for Judges' Salaries?: Supreme Court Questions State Governments

The Supreme Court of India has expressed strong displeasure over state governments' neglect in paying judges' salaries and pensions while allocating substantial funds for various freebie schemes. "There are funds for freebies, but not for paying judges?" questioned a bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and A.J. Masih during a hearing on a petition filed by the All India Judges' Association. The petition sought better salaries and post-retirement benefits for judges across the country, highlighting the inadequate pay and insufficient retirement perks currently provided.

During the hearing, the bench criticized the states for frequently citing financial constraints when it comes to judicial salaries but simultaneously announcing expensive schemes during elections. It referred to recent electoral promises, such as the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance’s 'Ladki Behna' scheme in Maharashtra and the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) ‘Mahila Samman Yojana’ in the context of the Delhi elections.

"States often claim a lack of financial resources to pay judges, but they have no issue announcing schemes like 'Ladki Behna' during elections," the court observed. It further remarked, "We witnessed political parties in Delhi elections offering financial incentives of ₹2,100 or ₹2,500 to women in an attempt to secure votes." The bench conveyed its dissatisfaction over this trend, emphasizing that neglecting judicial pay undermines the justice system.