POLITICS MUST BE AN INSTRUMENT OF NATIONAL SERVICE

 POLITICS MUST BE AN INSTRUMENT OF NATIONAL SERVICE

Politics cannot and must not be reduced to a game of personal ambition, private enrichment, family advancement or narrow self-interest. In a democracy, political authority is not a personal possession; it is a sacred public trust. Every person who enters public life automatically assumes a solemn responsibility to work for the development, security and dignity of the people. The true purpose of politics is to improve the lives of the masses, strengthen national institutions, protect constitutional values and ensure that the benefits of progress reach even the poorest and most neglected sections of society.

A person who enters politics merely to acquire power, wealth, influence or social importance cannot, in the truest sense, be called a statesman or a public servant. Such a person is only a self-seeker wearing the mask of political leadership. A genuine politician must possess vision, courage, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the nation. Personal interest must always remain subordinate to public welfare, and political convenience must never be allowed to override the larger interests of Bharat.

Unfortunately, contemporary politics often presents a disturbing picture. Many political representatives appear subservient—not to the people or the Constitution, but to private interests, family-controlled organisations, financial patrons, ideological pressure groups and, in certain cases, external influences. When political judgment is surrendered to such forces, democracy becomes vulnerable, public confidence declines and national interests are placed at serious risk. Leadership without independence of thought and strength of character cannot protect either the people or the nation.

Bharat therefore requires a strong culture of political education founded upon constitutional patriotism, national unity, public discipline, ethical governance and selfless service. Those aspiring to hold public office should receive extensive orientation in the history, civilisation, constitutional structure, strategic interests and social diversity of the country. Nationalism must not remain confined to speeches, slogans or ceremonial occasions; it must be reflected in honest administration, protection of public resources, respect for institutions and a sincere commitment to the welfare of every citizen.

At the same time, persons who knowingly betray public trust, engage in corruption, promote violence, compromise national security or act at the behest of hostile interests must face prompt and exemplary consequences strictly in accordance with law and after due process. Accountability should be certain, impartial and unaffected by political influence. A democracy becomes stronger—not weaker—when the law applies equally to the powerful and the ordinary citizen.

Unless Bharat develops principled leadership, vigilant institutions and a politically conscious population, the country may continue to remain vulnerable to manipulation by foreign forces seeking to exploit internal divisions. National unity, however, does not mean the suppression of disagreement. It means that, notwithstanding political differences, the sovereignty, security and progress of Bharat must remain non-negotiable.

Politics must once again become a noble instrument of public service. Power must be treated as responsibility, leadership as sacrifice, and governance as a solemn duty owed to the people. Only then can Bharat advance with confidence, dignity and strength—free from internal opportunism and external interference.

Vandemataram.

— Ashok Kumar Singh
Advocate, High Court at Calcutta