The Supreme Court expressed strong disapproval on Monday regarding state governments prioritizing election freebies over fulfilling financial obligations such as salaries and pensions for judges, as the Delhi Assembly elections draw near.

A bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and A.G. Masih was hearing a petition by the All India Judges Association, which highlighted the insufficient pay and retirement benefits provided to judges across the country.

Pointing to recent examples, the bench criticized schemes like Maharashtra's 'Ladki Bahin' initiative, introduced by the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, and similar financial promises made by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress in Delhi.

"When it comes to compensating judges, states frequently cite a lack of funds. Yet, during elections, they announce schemes such as the 'Ladki Bahin' program and other financial incentives in Delhi, offering Rs 2,100 or Rs 2,500 to gain votes," the bench remarked.

The AAP recently unveiled the "Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana," pledging monthly financial aid of Rs 2,100 to women if the party, led by Arvind Kejriwal, wins a third consecutive term in Delhi.

In response, the Delhi Congress announced its own scheme, promising Rs 2,500 in monthly assistance to women if voted to power in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Delhi's Assembly elections, involving 70 constituencies, are scheduled for a single phase on February 5, with vote counting on February 8. The deadline for filing nominations is January 17, and scrutiny of the nominations will take place on January 18.