Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: An Inspiration For Integrity And Accountability In Governance

As Indians, we are all proud to belong to the land of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. We feel so much pride when remembering the man who embodied patriotism and courage. But Netaji wasn't just a freedom fighter who fought for our nation. His name resonated with responsibility, dependability, and trust in the most passionate possible way.

While we remember his efforts in India's struggle for independence, it's equally important to reflect on the values he stood for, particularly integrity and accountability. These are not just qualities of the bygone era that were required for India to be free but principles equally crucial today for good governance and setting an example for a nation and its citizens.

Netaji's integrity set forth an example

Many summers ago, Netaji gave up the possibility of a respectable and comfortable career in the Indian Civil Services to join the freedom struggle. Instead of choosing the easy way, he decided to serve the nation and its people because, despite the many challenges, he knew what lay ahead if he didn't. He believed his purpose was greater than just administrative services. He wanted his knowledge and passion to drive the nation towards freedom and make his fellow citizens free from foreign rule.

As Netaji once said:

"One individual may die for an idea, but that idea will, after his death, incarnate itself in a thousand lives."

This decision stemmed from a deep sense of duty toward his country and his belief that true governance began with personal integrity.

The result? Bose's unwavering dedication and commitment towards leading the Indian National Army (INA) showed what it meant to be a selfless leader. INA was formed with a purpose, and without any difficulty at all, he took charge of not just leading INA but also instilling the same passion within his fellow members. His integrity was so unquestionable that today, the world uses him as an example of honesty, straightforwardness, and refusal to compromise on principles.

So, how does Bose's integrity set the tone for governance through integrity? This unquestionable integrity is essential for building trust between the government and its citizens. When leaders are seen as honest and trustworthy, they make regular citizens believe in and have confidence in the system. It all culminates in encouraging the common public towards greater participation and cooperation.

Lessons from Netaji's sense of accountability

Bose wasn't just a leader who led from the front. He was a teammate who focused on building trust with his fellow members and shared their challenges. This sense of accountability set the tone for selfless leadership then and can safely be set as a cornerstone for effective governance today. When those in power are answerable for their decisions and actions, it leads to responsible and transparent administration.

His famous slogan, "Give me blood, and I will give you freedom," wasn't mere rhetoric but a call for collective responsibility. Bose was a passionate man. His sense of responsibility was so infectious that it urged every citizen back then to contribute selflessly to the nation's freedom.

Imagine a leader so passionate and courageous that the entire team is bound to feel the same energy and devote themselves to the nation. Such leaders encourage confidence in the system, and that, in turn, encourages every citizen to be the same.

This is precisely what we need in today's India because, with proper governance, we can challenge and tackle the existing evils of governance, leading to a more stable and growing nation.

How does Netaji's qualities fit in today's times?

At a time when corruption and lack of transparency are significant challenges that make us question today's leaders and undermine our confidence in our government, Netaji's qualities of integrity and accountability are more relevant than ever.

As Bose once noted:

"No real change in history has ever been achieved by discussions."

His life serves as a reminder that those in positions of power must be held accountable for their actions, and when leaders truly want it, it is possible. When leaders act with integrity and accountability, they build a system of commitment and passion towards the nation's and its people's welfare. And what does this result in? A governance system where true leadership prioritises the well-being of citizens over personal or political gains.

Netaji envisioned a governance system rooted in transparency and accountability, and this is clear from his speeches and writings, which reflect his belief that leaders must be answerable to the people they serve. He practised what he preached and encouraged everyone to focus on the idea that public office is not a privilege but a responsibility. The position demands commitment and ethical behaviour from the one holding it. In fact, he appointed ministers based on merit rather than privileges because governance should be efficient and purpose-driven.

Bose's ideals powerfully remind us of the need for moral leadership today and forever. Integrity in governance ensures that leaders act in the public's best interest, upholding justice and fairness. Conversely, accountability creates trust between governments and citizens, forming the foundation of a stable and progressive society. The more in partnership today's leaders embrace these qualities, the better our nation will turn out to be.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was a testament to the fact that it is possible to have caring leaders. Even in the face of adversity, modern democracies can still take responsibility for their actions, admit their mistakes, and strive for continuous improvement. If leaders want it, governance can be fair and just despite today's challenges.

If we truly want to live up to his legacy, we must not limit ourselves to admiration; we must also initiate action. As Bose famously said:

"Life loses half its interest if there is no struggle-if there are no risks to be taken."

Bose's ideals of integrity and accountability are not just historical lessons that we can only study or discuss. We must use them as guiding principles for building a better future. So, whether at work or in the community, we must practice integrity and accountability in our actions and set an example for future generations. We must also encourage our leaders to prioritise honesty and public welfare so that we ultimately have a government that cares.

As we honour Bose's memory, let us commit to upholding his values in our own lives and demand the same from those in positions of power.