Question.
What do you mean by integrity? Why is integrity called the supreme quality of leadership?
Answer.
Meaning of Integrity:
Integrity refers to the quality of being honest, having strong moral principles, and maintaining consistency between one's values, actions, methods, and outcomes. A person with integrity does what is right even when no one is watching.
Example :
Lord Rama is the epitome of integrity. He accepted the decision of his father, Dasharatha, without resentment, simply because he believed in upholding truth, duty (dharma), and the promise made by his father.
Why Integrity is Called the Supreme Quality of Leadership:
Integrity is often regarded as the supreme quality of leadership for the following reasons:
1. Builds Trust:
Leaders with integrity gain the trust and confidence of their followers, which is essential for cohesive teamwork and sustained performance.
Example :
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was widely respected not just for his intellect, but also for his personal integrity and ethical leadership.
2. Ensures Consistency:
Integrity ensures that a leader’s decisions are consistent with ethical values, making them predictable and dependable.
Example:
Bhishma Pitamah, despite the flawed path taken by the Kauravas, remained loyal to the throne of Hastinapura because he had vowed to serve it faithfully. His consistency in upholding his vow—even when it cost him personally—demonstrates unwavering integrity, though not without moral complexity.
3. Inspires Others:
Ethical behavior from a leader sets a moral example and encourages others to follow suit, creating a culture of honesty and accountability.
Example-
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the “Iron Man of India,” showed unwavering dedication to national unity. His decisions during the integration of princely states were grounded in national interest and integrity.
4. Strengthens Legitimacy:
A leader with integrity is seen as legitimate and just, which is especially crucial in public administration and governance.
Example:
Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, lived a life of simplicity and honesty. Even during crises like the Indo-Pak war and food shortage, his transparent and sincere leadership won him public support.
5. Long-Term Success:
Integrity helps in building credibility and sustainable relationships with stakeholders, which is crucial for long-term success.
Example:
In the Ramayana, Lord Rama’s decision to send Sita into exile, though personally painful and socially controversial, was taken to uphold Raj Dharma (kingly duty)—demonstrating the difficult but consistent application of ethical leadership.
Conclusion:
Integrity is the foundation on which honesty and probity stand. In public administration, a leader without integrity may appear competent but cannot be trusted.
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