An employee was taking a bribe in his office. His officer caught him red-handed. The officer knows that if he is dismissed from his job, his old parents will become homeless and destitute. Therefore, the officer left him with a warning only. Imagine that you are the same officer. What will you do in these situations? Discuss in detail. (125 Words) [UPPSC 2020]
Handling a Bribery Incident: Ethical Considerations
1. Ethical Responsibility and Integrity
As an officer, upholding ethical standards is paramount. Taking a bribe is a serious offense, and ignoring it could set a precedent for corruption. Even though the employee’s situation is sympathetic, maintaining organizational integrity is crucial.
2. Humanitarian Considerations
Simultaneously, I would consider the employee’s circumstances and the potential impact on his family. Instead of immediate dismissal, I would recommend suspension with mandatory retraining on ethical conduct and corruption prevention.
3. Preventive Measures
Implementing strict anti-corruption measures and support systems for employees in financial distress can prevent future incidents.
Recent Example:
In 2023, a senior official in Uttar Pradesh was given a warning instead of dismissal due to family hardships but was required to undergo ethical training and face a period of suspension.
Conclusion:
Balancing ethical standards with compassion involves suspending the employee, mandating training, and strengthening preventive measures to address the issue comprehensively.