In India’s Dynamic Democracy, Is Leadership Serving Its Citizens or Pursuing Control?
Key Highlights
- Public Sentiment: A 2025 Pew Research survey revealed that 64% of Indians believe political leadership focuses on power consolidation rather than societal progress.
- Historical Contrasts: While leaders like Mahatma Gandhi emphasized societal welfare, contemporary politics often leans toward centralization of authority.
- Modern Debate: With increasing socio-economic challenges, the question of whether politics should prioritize progress over power is more relevant than ever.
Introduction
Politics is often described as the art of the possible—a mechanism to navigate societal complexities, address inequities, and drive collective progress. However, in modern India, politics frequently appears consumed by power struggles, populist rhetoric, and partisan agendas. The critical question remains: Is the true purpose of politics the pursuit of power, or can it be redirected toward the advancement of progress?
Politics and the Pursuit of Power
1. Historical Examples of Power-Driven Politics
- The Emergency (1975-1977): Indira Gandhi’s declaration of Emergency reflected how political authority could suppress civil liberties in the name of control.
- Centralization of Governance: Over time, political power has concentrated at the national level, often sidelining state governments and local bodies.
2. Modern Trends
- Identity Politics: Campaigns increasingly revolve around religious and caste-based identities, creating divisions rather than addressing development.
- Opaque Electoral Funding: The widespread use of electoral bonds has raised concerns about unaccounted donations and the undue influence of corporate interests.
Impact of Power-Centric Politics
- Institutional Erosion: Weakening of oversight bodies like the judiciary and Election Commission undermines checks and balances.
- Public Distrust: A Lokniti-CSDS study in 2024 found that 57% of Indians feel disconnected from political decision-making processes.
Progress as the Purpose of Politics
1. Historical Inspirations
- Mahatma Gandhi: Gandhi’s philosophy of Sarvodaya (welfare for all) and Ahimsa (non-violence) exemplified politics as a means to uplift society rather than amass power.
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: As the architect of the Indian Constitution, Ambedkar emphasized equality, justice, and progress over hierarchical control.
2. Modern Examples of Progress-Oriented Leadership
- Arvind Kejriwal: By prioritizing healthcare and education in Delhi, Kejriwal demonstrated how governance can focus on societal needs over political dominance.
- Naveen Patnaik: Patnaik’s disaster management strategies in Odisha highlight how leadership can effectively balance power with service to the community.
Impact of Progress-Focused Politics
- Economic Development: Policies like Make in India and Startup India demonstrate the potential of governance to boost innovation and self-reliance.
- Social Equity: Grassroots programs in Kerala, such as literacy movements, show how inclusive politics can transform societies.
Bridging Power and Progress
1. Reforming Political Systems
- Transparency: Mandate full disclosure of electoral funding to reduce corruption and influence peddling.
- Decentralization: Strengthen Panchayati Raj and urban local bodies to ensure governance reflects grassroots needs.
2. Civic Engagement
- Educated Electorate: Platforms like Know Your Candidate can empower voters to prioritize leaders who focus on progress over rhetoric.
- Citizen Activism: Social media and grassroots campaigns can hold leaders accountable for their promises.
3. Institutional Safeguards
- Independent Oversight: Protect the autonomy of institutions like the judiciary and Election Commission to prevent power abuse.
- Strengthened Media: A free and independent press is vital to highlight governance failures and successes objectively.
Conclusion
The true purpose of politics must align with the betterment of society, addressing inequality, and fostering sustainable development. While power is an essential tool for implementing policies, its unchecked pursuit undermines democracy and public trust. India’s dynamic democracy offers an opportunity to redefine politics by emphasizing progress over control. The ultimate responsibility lies with both leaders and citizens: Will we demand progress-driven governance, or will the allure of power continue to dominate our political narrative? The answer will shape the future of India’s democratic journey.
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