Prabhat was working as Vice President (Marketing) at Sterling Electric Ltd,, a reputed multinational company. But presently the company was passing through the difficult times as the sales were continuously showing downward trend in the last two quarters. His division, ...
Model Answer Introduction The tragic collapse of a mall under construction in your city, resulting in the deaths of four laborers, raises significant ethical concerns surrounding corruption, negligence, and the exploitation of workers. As the municipal commissioner, the responsibility to address theRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The tragic collapse of a mall under construction in your city, resulting in the deaths of four laborers, raises significant ethical concerns surrounding corruption, negligence, and the exploitation of workers. As the municipal commissioner, the responsibility to address these issues while maintaining integrity and public safety is paramount.
Ethical Issues Involved
1. Corruption
The use of substandard materials and the construction of an unauthorized additional basement indicate systemic corruption and a blatant disregard for public safety.
2. Negligence
The failure of building inspectors and officials to notice code violations represents a severe neglect of their professional duties, putting lives at risk.
3. Compromised Integrity
Your friendship with the previous Municipal Commissioner, who approved the project, raises questions about integrity and favoritism in decision-making processes.
4. Influence and Power Dynamics
The builder’s close ties to a powerful minister underscore the potential for influence peddling, complicating the investigation and pressuring you to overlook misconduct.
5. Exploitation of Labor
The deaths of daily wage laborers, including minors, highlight the exploitation of vulnerable populations, raising moral questions about worker safety and rights.
Options Available to the Municipal Commissioner
1. Conduct a Thorough Investigation
Ensure an unbiased inquiry involving experts to assess the situation comprehensively.
2. Report Findings to Higher Authorities
Present the findings transparently to relevant government bodies and anti-corruption agencies.
3. Refuse Corruption Offers
Decline any attempts to hush up the incident or accept bribes.
4. Support Affected Families
Provide assistance to the injured and the families of the deceased, including medical aid and compensation.
5. Implement Safety Measures
Establish stricter adherence to building codes and regular inspections to prevent future incidents.
6. Seek Legal Protection
Consult legal experts to safeguard against potential retaliatory actions or false accusations.
Selected Course of Action
As the municipal commissioner, you should:
- Initiate a Comprehensive Investigation: Engage relevant agencies to conduct an in-depth inquiry into the construction practices and the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
- Compile a Detailed Report: Document all findings related to violations, negligence, and corruption, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Report to Higher Authorities: Submit the report to state government officials and anti-corruption agencies, advocating for necessary actions.
- Provide Support: Offer support to the families of the victims, ensuring they receive medical assistance and compensation.
- Enforce Safety Protocols: Immediately halt construction activities and ensure compliance with all safety regulations moving forward.
- Advocate for Systemic Change: Work towards implementing robust measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, promoting a culture of safety and integrity.
Conclusion
By prioritizing integrity and conducting a fair investigation, you can uphold ethical standards, foster transparency, and restore public trust in municipal governance. This approach will serve as a strong deterrent against corruption and malpractices, setting a precedent for ethical conduct within the administration.
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Model Answer Introduction The case of Prabhat, Vice President of Marketing at Sterling Electric Ltd., presents a significant ethical dilemma. Faced with the offer from Subhash Verma to provide stolen bid documents, Prabhat must navigate complex ethical issues that could impact both his career and thRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The case of Prabhat, Vice President of Marketing at Sterling Electric Ltd., presents a significant ethical dilemma. Faced with the offer from Subhash Verma to provide stolen bid documents, Prabhat must navigate complex ethical issues that could impact both his career and the integrity of his company.
Body
(a) Ethical Issues Involved in the Case
(b) Options Available to Prabhat
(c) Most Appropriate Course of Action
The most appropriate course of action for Prabhat is to reject the offer and report the incident. This decision reinforces his commitment to ethical principles, maintains the integrity of the bidding process, and protects his company from legal and reputational risks. Accepting the offer would not only implicate him in unethical practices but could also lead to severe consequences for both his career and the organization as a whole.
Conclusion
By choosing to uphold ethical standards and report the incident, Prabhat can foster a culture of integrity within his organization and protect its long-term interests.
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