Mysore/Mysuru, Feb. 22 -- The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over the growing culture of 'freebies' announced by States, warning that indiscriminate distribution of benefits could hamper economic development and further strain already stretched State finances.

Hearing a plea by Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Ltd., which proposes to provide free electricity to all consumers irrespective of their financial status, the Court on Thursday observed that while welfare measures for the poor are justified, extending them universally without financial prudence could weaken long-term development.

A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, noted that many States are alrea...