The Journey from Politics to Enlightenment: Who Will Guide Us?
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- August 15, 2025
- Capital Journal, Politics
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In an Era of Polarization and Populism, Can Indian Politics Rediscover Its Ethical Roots?
Key Insights
- Public Sentiment: A 2024 Pew Research study revealed that 67% of Indians believe modern politics has deviated from its ethical purpose.
- Rising Awareness: Over 75% of Indian youth advocate for leaders prioritizing social justice and long-term development (Lokniti-CSDS).
- Historical Inspirations: Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar exemplified how politics could serve as a platform for enlightenment and collective progress.
Introduction
Politics, at its core, is meant to be a vehicle for collective betterment, grounded in ethical governance and visionary leadership. In India, where democracy thrives amidst extraordinary diversity, the need for enlightened leaders has never been more pressing. Yet, as modern politics leans toward populism and power struggles, the question arises: Can Indian politics return to its ethical roots and serve as a path to enlightenment?
The Historical Intersection of Politics and Enlightenment
1. Gandhi’s Ethical Leadership
- Moral Compass: Mahatma Gandhi transformed Indian politics into a platform for social justice, emphasizing Ahimsa (non-violence) and Sarvodaya (welfare for all).
- Legacy Today: Gandhi’s methods of non-violent resistance continue to inspire global movements but are often overlooked in modern Indian politics.
2. Ambedkar’s Vision of Social Justice
- Institutional Focus: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar viewed politics as a means to empower marginalized communities, embedding ideals of equality and justice into India’s Constitution.
- Present Disconnect: While his legacy is celebrated, political actions often fall short of addressing systemic inequalities.
The Modern State of Politics
1. Polarization and Populism
- Identity Politics: Campaigns increasingly focus on religion and caste, sidelining critical issues like unemployment, healthcare, and education.
- Short-Term Policies: Populist promises, such as loan waivers, prioritize electoral wins over sustainable development.
2. Public Disillusionment
- Corruption Concerns: India ranked 85th in the Corruption Perceptions Index 2024, reflecting persistent governance challenges (Transparency International).
- Declining Trust: A Lokniti-CSDS survey found that 64% of Indian voters feel their leaders prioritize power over public welfare.
Who Will Guide Us Toward Enlightened Governance?
1. Ethical and Visionary Leaders
- Grassroots Leadership: Leaders like Odisha’s Naveen Patnaik, known for disaster management and welfare schemes, demonstrate how governance can prioritize public interest.
- Youth Engagement: Rising leaders from grassroots movements and initiatives like the Youth Parliament Program signify hope for ethical governance.
2. Civil Society and Citizen Participation
- Digital Activism: Platforms like Twitter amplify calls for transparency and justice, empowering citizens to hold leaders accountable.
- Grassroots Movements: Protests like the Anti-CAA demonstrations highlight the collective demand for value-based governance.
The Path Forward
1. Reforming Political Systems
- Transparency in Funding: Mandating full disclosure of political donations can reduce undue corporate influence.
- Policy Focus: Shift from identity-based narratives to issue-centric campaigns addressing education, health, and climate change.
2. Promoting Ethical Leadership
- Educational Reforms: Introduce political philosophy and ethics in curricula to nurture informed, future leaders.
- Mentorship Programs: Encourage political parties to prioritize ethical candidates over those driven by power politics.
Conclusion
The journey from politics to enlightenment requires leaders who prioritize ethics, vision, and collective welfare. While modern Indian politics faces significant challenges, the growing demand for transparency and ethical governance signals a potential turning point. By fostering enlightened leadership and engaging citizens in the democratic process, India can redefine politics as a force for social transformation and justice. The question remains: Will we choose the path of enlightenment, or will politics continue to serve power over purpose?
