New Delhi, 2025 — In a political landscape where ambitions and strategies often take center stage, the question of whether power should be the ultimate goal in politics remains a contentious issue. Recent controversies and shifting dynamics in Indian politics have brought this debate to the forefront, highlighting the importance of intentions and the ethical compass of political leaders.
Recent Developments Shaping the Debate
- The Women’s Reservation Bill Passed in 2024, the Women’s Reservation Bill mandated 33% representation for women in legislatures. While celebrated as a milestone, critics questioned whether it was a genuine attempt to empower women or a political move to secure votes in key constituencies.
- Election Spending Transparency A 2024 report by the Election Commission of India revealed that over ₹10,000 crore was spent on campaigning during the general elections, raising concerns about the intentions behind extravagant political spending and its impact on governance.
- Grassroots Movements vs. Power Politics Grassroots leaders, such as those emerging from movements like Jal Shakti Abhiyan, often focus on community welfare. However, their success is frequently co-opted by larger political parties, blurring the line between genuine service and power-driven politics.
Should Power Be the Ultimate Goal in Politics?
- Arguments in Favor
- Influence for Change: Power allows leaders to enact policies and reforms, making it a necessary tool for driving progress.
- Stability in Governance: Political parties with strong leadership often ensure continuity and efficiency in decision-making.
- Counterarguments
- Ethical Dilemmas: When power becomes the sole objective, it can lead to compromises on principles and governance for personal or party gains.
- Erosion of Trust: Public perception suffers when political actions are seen as self-serving rather than altruistic, as evidenced by recent voter disillusionment in urban areas.
Intentions in Indian Politics: A Mixed Record
- Leaders with Service-Oriented Intentions
- Mahatma Gandhi: Emphasized service over power, inspiring leaders globally.
- Droupadi Murmu: As President, her tenure reflects a focus on inclusivity and constitutional values, transcending political ambitions.
- Power Dynamics and Challenges
- Coalition Politics: The frequent collapse of coalitions due to power struggles highlights the dangers of prioritizing dominance over governance.
- Dynastic Politics: Families dominating political parties often face criticism for focusing on maintaining power rather than serving the public.
The Global Context: Intentions vs. Power
India is not alone in grappling with the balance between intentions and power in politics. Recent global examples include:
- The U.S. Presidential Election: Candidates were scrutinized for their policy goals versus personal ambitions.
- UK Leadership Changes: Political instability due to leadership contests within parties has sparked debates about prioritizing governance over internal power struggles.
The Way Forward: Prioritizing Intentions in Governance
- Encouraging Transparency
- Implementing stricter regulations on election spending and lobbying can ensure that political actions align with public welfare.
- Platforms like MyGov enable citizens to track policy implementations, fostering accountability.
- Promoting Grassroots Leadership
- Programs like Mission Antyodaya, aimed at empowering rural governance, can cultivate leaders focused on service rather than personal gain.
- Fostering Ethical Political Culture
- Political parties should prioritize candidates with proven records of public service over those driven by dynastic or personal ambitions.
Conclusion
The role of intentions in politics cannot be overstated, as they shape public trust, policy outcomes, and the overall health of a democracy. While power is an essential tool for implementing change, it should not overshadow the ultimate goal of public service. As India navigates its democratic journey, fostering a culture that values intentions as much as influence will be key to building a more accountable and inclusive political system.
