Now when the results of J&K assembly elections are out, there is need to inculcate and introduce good governance by the upcoming elected government. Because good governance goes beyond better government and it is the healthy interaction between government, youth, civil society and other stakeholders of the state that truly can create a roadmap towards better resolution. We must perhaps even think a kind of elected government that is more open and inclusive, who would shape the political and economic machinery of the erstwhile state. The need of the times is to emerge a sensible leadership for the cause. Sensible leadership can have an immense role to play in reshaping the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir post abrogation of Article 370.
Our political leaders need to get enough sensitive now towards the growing challenges in education, health , economy, basic human rights and the existing political system in Jammu and Kashmir and should shoulder responsibility to set it right in a more positive direction. Having said that, to redefine the idea of true leadership, a political elected leader must inherit the following qualities:
Honesty
Facing vulnerability and speaking out for people with true intention comes out to be a challenge though. However, honesty develops character and builds credibility and trust, which are the foundation to evoke confidence and respect from those around you, and in the case of political leaders, teammates and constituents.
Compassion
Compassion is the humane quality of understanding the suffering of others and wanting to do something to alleviate that suffering. While many see compassion as a weakness, true compassion is a characteristic that converts knowledge to wisdom. Good political leaders use compassion to see the needs of those he or she leads and to determine the course of action that would be of greatest benefit to all those involved.
Integrity
The word integrity is defined as ‘the adherence to moral and ethical principles; the soundness of moral character.’ It is a synonym for honesty and uprightness, and is a vital characteristic for those in political leadership. Political leaders who possess integrity can be trusted because he or she never plays with his/her inner values, even when it might benefit them to do so. A leader must have the trust of followers. This requires the highest standard of integrity.
Confidence
Having confidence in a political leader is about having faith or belief that he or she will act in a right, proper, or effective way. A good political leader needs to be both confident in himself or herself as well in their ability to lead. Leaders who possess this quality inspire others, drawing on a level of trust which sparks the motivation to get others on board and get the job done.
Flexibility
Flexibility for a political leader is about understanding the give-and-take aspects of politics, and the ability to find the common ground. Good politicians listen carefully to all sides; to not only hear their arguments but to especially learn what it will take on behalf of all parties involved to reach a consensus. This characteristic allows political leaders to recognize setbacks and criticism, to learn from them and move forward.
Knowledge
Knowledge and intellect is crucial. Being a Ministerial candidate, he/she should possess knowledge about our system, constitution, laws etc. A leader’s behaviour flows from three main sources- attitude, desire and knowledge. A leader must get aware that with power comes responsibility and that responsibility has to be executed through the true representation of the issues of the people.
Great political leaders have all of the above qualities – and more. Each aspires to respect different views, analyse problems, and identify the best solutions – not based on loyalty to their political gains, but rather based on what is good and right and in the best interest of the state as a whole.
We would hope that the upcoming government could provide as an initiation to foster robust development in the erstwhile state in multiple dimensions.
(Author is a medical doctor, columnist and public speaker. Feedback: [email protected])
