Dr KK Aggarwal
As individuals, we are
different from what our position in society. But as public figures, whether
elected, nominated or selected, we represent the collective consciousness of
the people who we represent. We are bound by the people we represent.
Public figures often become
icons, brand ambassadors, role models for people and influence thought,
knowledge and behavior. When we become public figures, people watch us, follow
us, trust us and idolize us. They often look to us for guidance, inspiration
and support.
Public figures lose their
privacy. This is the price that has to be paid for fame. It is up to you
whether you would like to be a public figure.
But, once you choose to become
a public figure, you have to be neutral, impartial, balanced (sthit pragya i.e. harmony
with oneself, environment and nature) and not be disturbed by emotions.
Public figures must practice
detached attachment, look for opportunity in every adversity. Listening skills
are important.
As public figures, we have no
reason to be emotional, reactive, or prone to anger because as public figures
our actions are being closely watched and scrutinized. Everything that we speak
and do or how we behave towards others has an impact on people, especially the
impressionable young minds. All in all, a public person must be a positive
person.
Leaders or public role models
should behave with dignity or in a manner worthy of their position, particularly
in a crisis or handling a tough or difficult situation. This will set an
example for others to follow. Our behavior creates our image, what others see
us as. Remember, fame is not everlasting; it is fickle and may change at any
moment. So, it has to be managed well.
Members of Parliament
represent the public as they are directly elected by the people. Being an MP is
a people-oriented job with direct interaction with the public. MPs have
leadership roles and being in the public eye always, they have to lead by
example and must serve as an example of good conduct.
Mr Anant Kumar Hegde allegedly
assaulted doctors at a private hospital in Sirsi, Karnataka in January this
year, over an alleged delay in treatment of his mother. This assault was
captured on CCTV camera.
A public figure, who had no control over his anger, so much so that he was driven to physically assault another person, a doctor in this case, has been made a Minister of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship entrusted with developing skills and promoting innovative thinking. Action has yet to be taken against him. This has sent a wrong message to the society, especially to the young.
I know
that I have changed after taking over as the National President IMA and we expect the same from Mr Anant Kumar Hegde.
Disclaimer: The views
expressed in this write up are entirely my own.
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