Model Answer Ethical Challenges Faced by Public Servants in India Public servants in India often encounter several ethical dilemmas while executing their duties, where they must balance conflicting principles. Some common ethical challenges include: Economic Development vs. Environmental and Human CRead more
Model Answer
Ethical Challenges Faced by Public Servants in India
Public servants in India often encounter several ethical dilemmas while executing their duties, where they must balance conflicting principles. Some common ethical challenges include:
Economic Development vs. Environmental and Human Costs
Public servants are often tasked with development projects that may harm the environment or lead to human displacement. For instance, the construction of dams or industrial projects may improve economic growth but may also cause pollution or displace local communities. Balancing the need for economic progress with the protection of the environment and human rights poses a significant ethical dilemma.
Oath of Secrecy vs. Transparency
Public servants are required to protect sensitive information for security reasons, but they must also uphold transparency to maintain public accountability. Striking a balance between confidentiality and the need for openness to the public can lead to ethical conflicts, especially when there is pressure to disclose sensitive information.
Conflicts Between Personal Beliefs and Official Duties
At times, public servants may receive orders or be expected to implement policies that go against their personal beliefs. For example, enforcing policies that involve demolishing religious or community structures may conflict with their personal values, creating a moral dilemma.
Politicization of Bureaucracy
Public servants may face external pressure from political parties to favor certain individuals or groups, compromising their professional duty to serve impartially. This politicization undermines the principles of fairness and equal treatment.
Allocation of Limited Resources
With limited resources, public servants must make difficult decisions on how to allocate funds for various sectors, such as healthcare, education, or infrastructure. These decisions often involve ethical dilemmas as each sector has significant social impact.
Addressing Ethical Dilemmas
Public servants can resolve these dilemmas by adhering to the ALIR Model (Accountability, Legality, Integrity, and Responsiveness), which ensures that decisions are based on democratic accountability, the rule of law, and professional integrity. They can also engage in dialogue with superiors and follow established codes of conduct. Furthermore, personal moral values, fortitude, and the ability to take responsibility for one’s actions are essential in resolving ethical conflicts. Following Gandhiji’s Talisman, which prioritizes the interests of the marginalized and the poor, can also guide ethical decision-making.
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Model Answer Introduction Integrity embodies honesty, ethics, and a steadfast commitment to one’s principles. A true test of integrity is the complete refusal to be compromised, meaning individuals will not sacrifice their values for personal gain, even when faced with adversity. Body A poignant exaRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Integrity embodies honesty, ethics, and a steadfast commitment to one’s principles. A true test of integrity is the complete refusal to be compromised, meaning individuals will not sacrifice their values for personal gain, even when faced with adversity.
Body
A poignant example of this principle is illustrated by Satyendra Dubey, an Indian engineer with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). In 2002, Dubey raised alarms about corruption and mismanagement in a highway construction project in Bihar. He courageously wrote letters to various high-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister’s Office, detailing the irregularities and urging an investigation.
Despite his bravery, Dubey faced severe retaliation from contractors and local politicians involved in the corrupt practices. Tragically, on November 27, 2003, he was shot dead by unidentified assailants, a direct consequence of his refusal to compromise his integrity. His commitment to exposing corruption ultimately cost him his life, yet it also shone a spotlight on the rampant corruption in India.
Dubey’s sacrifice led to the enactment of the Whistle-blowers Protection Act in 2004, aimed at safeguarding individuals who expose corruption and malpractice (Government of India, 2004). His case underscores the vital importance of integrity in public service and the necessity for protective legal frameworks for whistle-blowers.
Other notable figures exemplifying integrity include Rosa Parks, who defied segregation laws in the U.S. by refusing to give up her bus seat, and Edward Snowden, who leaked NSA documents to expose government surveillance practices. Similarly, Anna Hazare’s hunger strike in 2011 to combat corruption in India emphasizes the theme of standing firm against unethical practices.
Conclusion
These individuals, including Satyendra Dubey, demonstrate that true integrity means refusing to compromise on one’s principles, even under dire circumstances. Their actions not only highlight significant social issues but also inspire others to confront injustice and corruption.
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