Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Ethical dilemmas are inherent in public service, often arising from conflicts between personal values, professional duties, and societal expectations. A civil servant like Ramesh frequently encounters situations where choosing the ‘right’ course of action is not straightforward. These dilemmas test the integrity and moral compass of the individual, demanding careful consideration of consequences and adherence to ethical principles. The increasing scrutiny of public officials and the demand for transparency further amplify the complexity of these situations, requiring a robust ethical framework for decision-making. This answer will explore the potential ethical dilemmas faced by Ramesh, assuming a context of a public servant.
Understanding the Context & Stakeholders
Without specific details about Ramesh’s situation, we can assume he is a public servant facing a challenging situation. The stakeholders involved would likely include: Ramesh himself, his superiors, his subordinates, the public he serves, and potentially, political figures. The nature of the dilemma will depend on the specific context, but common scenarios include conflicts of interest, abuse of power, confidentiality breaches, and pressure to compromise on integrity.
Potential Ethical Dilemmas Faced by Ramesh
1. Conflict of Interest
Ramesh might be faced with a situation where his personal interests (financial, familial, or social) clash with his official duties. For example, he might be responsible for awarding a contract to a company in which his relative has a significant stake. This presents a dilemma between loyalty to family and upholding the principles of impartiality and fairness.
2. Obedience vs. Integrity
Ramesh could be instructed by a superior to perform an action that he believes is unethical or illegal. This creates a conflict between obedience to authority and his duty to uphold the law and maintain his integrity. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2008) highlighted the need for a robust ethical framework to address such situations.
3. Confidentiality vs. Public Interest
Ramesh might possess confidential information that, if disclosed, could serve the public interest but would violate his duty of confidentiality. For instance, he might learn about a potential public health hazard that his department is concealing. This presents a dilemma between protecting sensitive information and safeguarding the well-being of citizens.
4. Transparency vs. Efficiency
Ramesh might face pressure to prioritize efficiency over transparency, potentially leading to decisions that are made without adequate public scrutiny. This could involve streamlining processes at the expense of accountability or concealing information to avoid delays. The Right to Information Act, 2005 aims to balance these competing interests.
5. Fairness vs. Political Pressure
Ramesh might be pressured by political figures to favor certain individuals or groups in the allocation of resources or the implementation of policies. This creates a dilemma between upholding the principles of fairness and impartiality and complying with political demands.
Applying Ethical Frameworks
- Utilitarianism: Ramesh might attempt to choose the course of action that maximizes overall happiness and minimizes harm. However, determining the ‘greatest good’ can be subjective and challenging.
- Deontology: Ramesh might focus on adhering to universal moral principles, such as honesty, fairness, and respect for persons, regardless of the consequences.
- Virtue Ethics: Ramesh might consider what a virtuous public servant would do in the given situation, emphasizing qualities like integrity, courage, and compassion.
Example Scenario & Analysis
Let's assume Ramesh is a District Magistrate and receives instructions from a local politician to expedite the clearance of a construction project that violates environmental regulations. This presents a clear ethical dilemma. Following the politician’s instructions would benefit the politician and potentially create jobs (utilitarian argument), but it would also harm the environment and violate the law (deontological concern). A virtuous public servant would prioritize the long-term well-being of the community and uphold the law, even if it means facing political repercussions.
| Ethical Principle | Application to Scenario |
|---|---|
| Integrity | Rejecting the politician’s request to avoid compromising ethical standards. |
| Accountability | Documenting the politician’s request and reporting it to higher authorities. |
| Transparency | Ensuring that the environmental impact assessment is conducted thoroughly and made public. |
Conclusion
The ethical dilemmas faced by Ramesh, like those encountered by many public servants, are complex and require careful consideration. There are rarely easy answers, and the best course of action often involves balancing competing values and principles. A strong ethical framework, coupled with courage, integrity, and a commitment to public service, is essential for navigating these challenges effectively. Promoting a culture of ethical conduct within the bureaucracy, through training and accountability mechanisms, is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring good governance.
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.