SC, EC incorrect in barring parties from offering freebies in manifestos: SP

The Samajwadi Party (SP) has asserted that there is nothing wrong in political parties offering freebies to voters through their manifestos, and termed as incorrect the orders issued to this effect by both the Supreme Court and the Election Commission.

It said that election manifestos outline the ideological vision, political perspective and promises and assurances given to the people and this right cannot be taken away or subjected to any scrutiny.

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Ram Gopal Yadav on Monday said the party is against the Supreme Court's decision in the matter.

"The Samajwadi Party (SP) believes that the decision of the Supreme Court and its direction to the Election Commission are not correct. Samajwadi Party is completely against this decision of the Supreme Court," he said.

Earlier in the day, the Election Commission had convened a meeting to seek the opinion of various parties before making rules to regulate allurements in election manifestos.

The guidelines are being framed after the Supreme Court asked the Election Commission on July 5 to frame guidelines about such promises announced by political parties.

While disposing of a special leave petition challenging the freebies, the apex court had said that there is no enactment that directly governs the contents of the election manifesto.

The Election Commission wishes to formulate a clear policy on defining freebies announced by parties ahead of elections and has invited suggestions from political parties.