Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The pursuit of ethical conduct in public service is often framed as an individual responsibility. However, the reality is frequently more complex, particularly in environments where unethical practices are widespread. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2008) highlighted the pervasive nature of corruption in India and its detrimental impact on governance. The question posed reflects a common sentiment among aspiring civil servants – a sense of futility when confronted with systemic dishonesty. It’s a valid concern: if widespread malfeasance exists, what impact can a lone ethical actor truly have? This answer will explore this dilemma, arguing that even in the face of systemic corruption, individual ethical conduct remains crucial and can, in fact, be a catalyst for positive change.
Understanding the Dilemma
The friend’s concern stems from a realistic assessment of the Indian context. Systemic corruption, characterized by rent-seeking behavior, nepotism, and a lack of accountability, is a significant challenge. The perception that unethical behavior is rewarded while ethical conduct is penalized can be deeply discouraging. This is often linked to a ‘collective action problem’ where individuals rationally choose to act unethically because they believe others will do the same, leading to a suboptimal outcome for all.
The Importance of Individual Ethics
Despite the challenges, individual ethical conduct is not only important but essential for several reasons:
- Moral Imperative: Ethics, at its core, is about doing what is right, regardless of the consequences. A civil servant’s actions directly impact the lives of citizens, and upholding ethical standards is a fundamental duty.
- Building Trust: A single ethical officer can inspire confidence in the system, even if it’s limited. This trust is vital for effective governance and citizen participation.
- Long-Term Systemic Change: While a single individual may not dismantle corruption overnight, consistent ethical behavior can create a ripple effect. It can challenge the prevailing norms and encourage others to follow suit.
- Preventing Escalation: Even small acts of ethical resistance can prevent further deterioration of the system. Ignoring unethical behavior allows it to become normalized and entrenched.
Strategies for Navigating a Corrupt System
Remaining ethical in a corrupt environment requires strategic thinking and resilience:
- Documentation & Transparency: Meticulously documenting all decisions and actions can deter unethical requests and provide evidence if needed. Promoting transparency in processes can reduce opportunities for corruption.
- Building Alliances: Identifying and collaborating with like-minded colleagues can provide support and strength in resisting unethical pressures.
- Utilizing Institutional Mechanisms: Leveraging existing mechanisms for reporting corruption, such as the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and the Lokpal, is crucial.
- Whistleblower Protection: Understanding and utilizing whistleblower protection laws (like the Whistleblowers Protection Act, 2014) is vital, though their effectiveness remains a concern.
- Ethical Leadership: Demonstrating ethical leadership by example can inspire others and create a culture of integrity within the organization.
Examples of Ethical Conduct
Kannamwar’s Stand: In the 1980s, IAS officer U.P.S. Kannamwar, as the Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, exposed a major scam involving land allocation, despite facing immense political pressure. This demonstrated the power of individual courage and integrity.
Durga Shakti Nagpal: The suspension of IAS officer Durga Shakti Nagpal in 2013 for cracking down on illegal mining in Uttar Pradesh highlighted the challenges faced by ethical officers. While controversial, her actions sparked a national debate on bureaucratic accountability.
| Ethical Approach | Potential Challenges | Mitigation Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Reporting Corruption | Retaliation, Isolation | Utilize whistleblower protection, build alliances |
| Refusing Unethical Orders | Career stagnation, Negative evaluations | Document refusal, seek legal counsel |
| Promoting Transparency | Resistance from vested interests | Public awareness campaigns, leveraging RTI |
Conclusion
While the friend’s concerns about the pervasiveness of unethical conduct are valid, succumbing to cynicism is not the answer. Individual ethical conduct, though challenging, is a cornerstone of good governance. It’s not about being naive, but about recognizing that even small acts of integrity can contribute to a larger movement for systemic change. Aspiring civil servants must cultivate resilience, strategic thinking, and a commitment to upholding ethical principles, even in the face of adversity. The future of India’s governance depends on it.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.