Leadership authority in Indian contexts comes with responsibility for those led. The leader who has authority over followers also has obligation to care for them—to protect their interests, help with their problems, and ensure their wellbeing. This paternalistic dimension is expected: the boss who shows concern for subordinates’ situations, the teacher who cares about student difficulties, the officer who ensures troop welfare. Care extends beyond the immediate task—leaders are responsible for followers as people, not just for their work output.
Leaders who fail to care lose legitimacy even if otherwise competent. The uncaring leader who exploits followers or disregards their welfare has violated leadership responsibility.
If you lead, know that caring for your people is part of your job. If you are led, recognize that good leaders will show concern for you and that this care deserves your loyalty in return.
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