Personal Development Mentor, Parenting Coach, Career Counselor, Ethical Guide
JUSTICE
- Aug 26, 2024
JUSTICE
Land mines are very dangerous things and do not distinguish between friend and foe. You trip them or step on them, they don’t spare you. So in case of Line of Control defensive line, where we have laid out own minefields they have to be properly fenced, marked and strict orders laid out for dealing with any mine accidents.
During one of my postings on Line of Control there was an eager soldier trying to catch a truant chicken stepped over a low barbed wire, landed on a mine and with a loud thud went down. He was evacuated, and lost his foot below ankle.
Now as a part of policy an independent inquiry was ordered and the Company Commander was blamed for this mine accident. The proceedings were sternly recommended by the Brigade Commander and forwarded to the Divisional Headquarters for further processing. In the meanwhile the Brigade Commander got posted out.
The new incumbent was given due briefings on all aspects of his responsibilities and this issue also came to his notice. Now he saw the whole issue with a fresh pair of eyes and noted the dichotomy. He wondered how come a Company Commander can be held responsible for one of his soldier due to his own negligence crossing a fenced minefield and suffering injury? He rightly came to the conclusion that recommending severe punishment to the officer was grossly unjust and now that he was in charge, he should undo the wrong.
The clear headed Commander, without bothering for any adverse view from his superiors, recalled the Disciplinary proceedings back from the Divisional HQ and reversed the direction of his predecessor.
This one act of delivery of justice saved the career of a brilliant officer who went on to become a one star general officer and is still in service with a bright future. If the beaten path was followed, he would have been just another casualty of rigid, and at times callous, policy interpretation.
A leader has to be just, not having any favorites or blve eyed boys. Only then he will be looked upon with respect and be trusted across board by his subordinates. This invariably results in great results for any collective efforts, by any organisation or group.
Justice is a crucial aspect of effective leadership, impacting team morale and success. Picture this scenario: you’re dedicated, consistently exceeding expectations, yet when it’s time for recognition, someone else is chosen, seemingly due to favoritism. This lack of fairness can breed resentment and hinder team success. Conversely, a leader known for just decision-making builds trust and respect. People feel valued and motivated. How can you cultivate justice as a leader?
Traditionally, fairness is seen as treating everyone equally. However, this approach overlooks individual circumstances. Consider two team members vying for a promotion. One meets expectations, while the other exceeds goals. True justice involves equity, recognizing different starting points. A just leader considers individual contributions and skills, creating a fair but not identical path to success for all.
Just decision-making requires clear, consistent standards. What are the performance expectations? By outlining these, you eliminate confusion. Consistency is crucial; don’t hold some to higher standards. Avoid exceptions based on personal biases. Be transparent about decision-making, justifying rewards or consequences clearly.
Justice involves creating an environment where team members feel comfortable discussing concerns. An open-door policy allows them to raise questions about fairness. Actively listen and explain your reasoning. This fosters trust and shows commitment to fair treatment.
Even just leaders make mistakes. Acknowledge them when they happen. If a decision wasn’t fair, be willing to revisit it. This shows your team you’re human and can rebuild trust. It sets an example of accountability and course correction.
Advocate for fair systems within the organization. Identify areas for improvement and champion initiatives that level the playing field. This might involve pushing for diversity and inclusion programs, advocating for flexible work arrangements, or proposing mentorship opportunities for all team members.
Leading with justice has tangible benefits. A team that feels valued and treated fairly is more motivated and productive. A reputation for fairness attracts top talent. People want to work where they’re treated with respect. Justice is key for building a high-performing team.
Major General Balraj Mehta
For over 35 years I served in the esteemed Indian Army, starting with one star on the shoulder to two stars on the flag. Leading infantry forces and commanding thousands of soldiers honed my leadership skills and instilled in me a deep understanding of human nature. This experience allows me to connect with individuals on a profound level, offering practical solutions for navigating complex career and parenting challenges.
My passion extends beyond the uniform into advising clients for a happy family life, grooming teenagers & young adults and development assistance to professionals. I am a firm believer in the power of knowledge sharing and personal growth. As a paratrooper I embraced challenges head-on, defying limitations and soaring to new heights. Now, I translate that same spirit into my work as a Coach, Mentor, Writer Speaker and Influencer.
Since transitioning from the military, I have embarked on a captivating journey of engaging audiences with my insights on leadership, human relations, and the ever-evolving nature of parent child relationship. My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the discourse on empowering young adults and spreading awareness about need for compassionate parenting, offering valuable perspectives honed through first hand, personal and real-world experience.
I hold dear my commitment to knowledge sharing, teaching, guiding and mentoring the budding entrepreneurs, young professionals and parents of teenagers. By equipping future leaders with the tools they need to excel, I aim to empower them to navigate the complexities of the ever-changing world. It's incredibly rewarding to witness their growth and know that I am helping to shape the next generation of charismatic leaders.
In 1983 I embarked on a distinguished career in the Indian Army, having been commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. The unwavering loyalty and dedication I held for my Nation and my Service became the cornerstone of faith during my professional journey. Each year honed my character, sharpened my skills, and fortified my resolve in service of a greater mission which I took upon as my very own!
Olive Green blood runs in my veins!
My operational journey in infantry culminated in commanding an infantry brigade in a highly sensitive operational area. This exceptionally successful tenure earned me the coveted Sena Medal for distinguished service in 2013. Throughout my career, I endeavour to forge excellent civil-military relations and oversaw crucial operations, including the rebuilding of military establishments devastated by Cyclone Phailin in 2013.
After 35 years of dedicated service, my career peaked as the General Officer Commanding the Sub Area of Uttarakhand and later the 41 Sub Area. On 31 August 2018, I superannuated from the Indian army, receiving a dignified farewell by the then Chief of the Army Staff, General Bipin Rawat.
My experiences have equipped me to guide individuals through the journey called life, helping people overcome their uncertainties and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead.
My mission is to empower individuals to live a meaningful life and pursue fulfilling careers. I leverage my expertise in handling human resources, teaching, coaching and personal experiences in leading large organisations to provide guidance and support to parents to deal with their parenting woes, especially with respect to teenagers. I am dedicated to helping parents to overcome anxieties, discover their children’s passions and guide them to successful career choices. My goal is to see them gain clarity, build confidence, and find joy in their life and work.
I am committed to guiding entrepreneurs and young professionals to acquire necessary skills, develop their latent leadership qualities, get over anxiety for performance and forge a stronger personal and professional standing. I consider enhancing their efficiency by reorganisation, reorientation and reaffirmation as my specialty.
I envision a world where parents are empowered to let their children get aligned with their passions, values and talents and feel supported and encouraged to make wise career choices. I strive to be a catalyst for this change, providing the guidance and knowledge necessary for parents to build strong children, for teenagers to grow into strong, stable and compassionate adults and young professionals to achieve greater personal and professional fulfilment.
- Maj Gen Balraj Mehta