Essays: A People that Values Its Privileges Above Its Principles Loses Both (August 2024) | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

The Ultimate Value of Life Depends upon Awareness and the Power of Contemplation Rather than Upon Mere Survival. —Aristotle

The statement "A people that values its privileges above its principles loses both" serves as a profound warning about maintaining a balance between ethical standards and personal advantages. This balance is crucial for sustaining a just and functional society. History demonstrates that when communities prioritize short-term gains over fundamental principles, they often face downfall and instability. It underscores the need for societies to uphold their principles to ensure enduring stability and justice. 

Throughout history, societies have grappled with balancing privileges and principles. India provides a compelling example of this dynamic. During the British colonial era, Indian society underwent a significant transformation. Initially, the British East India Company arrived for trade, but their pursuit of economic and political control led them to impose dominance, prioritizing their privileges over the principles of justice and equality for the Indian people.

As British colonial rulers accumulated wealth and power, collaborating Indian elites also shared in this exploitation. Traditional systems of self-governance, rooted in principles of social responsibility and communal harmony, were undermined. Exploitative policies, such as heavy taxation and resource drain, exacerbated poverty and inequality among the Indian populace.

This disregard for ethical governance and the prioritization of colonial privileges over community well-being led to widespread discontent and resistance. The colonial period exemplifies how prioritizing privileges over principles can lead to social unrest and the eventual loss of control by the ruling powers. It highlights the importance of adhering to principles of justice and equality for a stable and cohesive society.

India's struggle for independence from British rule is a testament to the triumph of principles over privileges. The independence movement, led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, was driven by the principles of self-rule, justice, and equality. Despite the benefits and comforts of collaboration with the British, many Indian elites chose to support the nationalist cause.
Post-independence, India embarked on building a democratic republic based on principles enshrined in its Constitution. The founding fathers envisioned a nation where secularism, social justice, and equality would be foundational. The abolition of untouchability, the promise of universal adult franchise, and the establishment of a socialist economy were aimed at upholding these principles.

However, this journey has faced challenges. The Emergency period (1975-1977) illustrates how the pursuit of political privileges can undermine democratic principles. The suspension of civil liberties, censorship of the press, and the jailing of political opponents showed a clear departure from democratic values and civil rights. This period is a reminder that when privileges overshadow principles, both are at risk of being lost.

Corruption in India’s political and bureaucratic systems further exemplifies the issue. Scandals like the 2010 Commonwealth Games and 2G spectrum case highlight how the quest for personal gain can compromise principles of transparency and accountability. These scandals damaged India’s international reputation and eroded public trust in governmental institutions.

India’s rapid economic development often conflicts with environmental sustainability. The principle of sustainable development is frequently overshadowed by economic privileges. Projects like industrial expansion and mining have led to significant environmental degradation and displacement of indigenous communities.

The Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) exemplifies the clash between development privileges and environmental principles. Led by activists like Medha Patkar, the movement opposed large dams on the Narmada River that threatened to displace people and disrupt ecosystems. It emphasized sustainable development and social justice, arguing that project benefits should not come at the expense of human and environmental harm. Despite some successes, it highlights the ongoing struggle to balance economic privileges with environmental principles.

The Indian judiciary, as the guardian of constitutional principles, faces challenges of corruption and political interference. High-profile cases, such as allegations against former Chief Justice of India and the handling of the Ayodhya verdict, raise concerns about judicial integrity. These instances suggest that when judicial privileges take precedence over impartiality, the principles of justice are compromised, leading to a loss of public confidence.

A free press is essential for democracy, serving as a check on power and a voice for the voiceless. However, media control by powerful interests threatens this role. Instances of media censorship, harassment of journalists, and paid news reflect a shift towards privileging political and economic interests over journalistic integrity. The crackdown on dissent and use of sedition laws against journalists are troubling trends that show how pursuing privileges can erode principles of free speech and democracy.

India’s experience illustrates the delicate balance between privileges and principles. From the freedom struggle to contemporary challenges, the country’s trajectory shows that when privileges overshadow principles, both are at risk. Upholding principles like justice, equality, democracy, and sustainability is crucial for long-term societal well-being. The examples from India's history and society highlight the need for vigilance and commitment to principles. Ensuring that principles are valued above short-term privileges is essential for enduring progress and stability.

The Tree Laden with Fruits Always Bends Low. If You Wish to be Great, be Lowly and Meek. — Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa