Politics is essential if humans are to develop and grow in peace. No society can sustain itself without politics. Subsequently, proper vision based on unalterable principles is imperative if society is to prosper. Politicians should always be mindful of this while engaging in politics. Their actions should spring forth from a pure mind to uphold the common-will, and humility to retract when they deviate from guiding principles. We remember as the greater leaders, those who fought for truth and dignity of all people, rather than banking on political support of specific segments of society to cement their legacy.
Abraham Lincoln fought for the emancipation of slavery based on the principle that all men are created equal, and he did so against the will of his own political party. Our freedom fighters gave their lives for the sake of freedom, because freedom is endowed by God, and nobody should be deprived of it. Dr Ambedkar fought for equal rights for all before the constitution was written, rights based on timeless truth.
What kind of legacy will our leaders leave by politicking to bank votes, rather than letting guiding principles direct their activities? India and Indians today are facing unsettling ripples of disharmony because their leaders’ politics are motivated by racking up vote, not by commitment to uphold fundamental unalterable political principles that benefit society.
In the recent past, and among the current lot, great countries have failed to produce noble leaders, for that same reason. Most of the leaders are driven by ulterior motives. It is essential to keep in mind that only sincerity and truthfulness in leaders induces the mass to place their common will at the service of building a better society. Leaders’ betrayal of the people’s trust cast a shadow of uncertainty on a beautiful political system.
“Ban” has become an “in-thing” in India. The government of the day has espoused the role of a big brother. What one should eat? What one should wear? What one should watch, or who should seek truth and how should they do it? Are citizens adolescents, unable to make mature choices? Did the leaders who now aspire to a parental role have a similar condescending attitude towards people when they asked for their votes? Is this correct politics? Or are the leaders working for selfish gain? Loot of “Aam Aadmi Party” and what has transpired in the last few weeks. This party came into power by creating great excitement among the masses by projecting its image as a party with difference. In fact, it was based on noble principles. But since, it has ousted Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bushant, and other foundering members who gave voice to those principles, thereby casting aspersions on the guiding tenets. Should constructive criticism be frown up? Conscience bothers those who violate fundamental principles. Has “AAP” condescended to doing politics like other political parties?
It is imperative to keep in mind that Rome was not built in a day. Politics is noble, so long as it motivates honorable and decent people to engage in public life. Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Although many become active in politics with good intentions, they can be corrupted by the power it may bring, it allures them to abuse power for selfish purpose and failing to uphold the guiding principles.
