Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Ethical dilemmas are inherent in public service, demanding careful consideration and principled action. Civil servants often face situations where personal values clash with organizational demands or legal requirements. The core of ethical governance lies in upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability. Rakesh, presumably a public official, is facing a challenging situation requiring a nuanced response. This answer will explore the options available to Rakesh, analyzing their ethical and practical implications, and suggesting a course of action that prioritizes public interest and professional ethics.
Understanding the Context (Assuming a Typical Scenario)
Let's assume Rakesh is a Section Officer in a government department and has been asked by his superior to manipulate data in a report to present a more favorable picture of a project's progress. This is a common ethical challenge faced by civil servants.
Options Available to Rakesh
- Option 1: Compliance with the Order: Rakesh could comply with his superior’s instruction and manipulate the data.
- Option 2: Discreet Resistance: Rakesh could attempt to subtly resist the order by highlighting the potential inaccuracies or suggesting alternative phrasing without directly refusing.
- Option 3: Formal Reporting: Rakesh could formally report the matter to higher authorities, such as the Vigilance Commission or a senior officer not involved in the issue.
- Option 4: Seeking Clarification: Rakesh could seek clarification from his superior regarding the rationale behind the instruction, potentially leading to a reconsideration of the order.
- Option 5: Resignation: As a last resort, Rakesh could resign from his position if he believes his ethical principles are fundamentally compromised.
Analysis of Each Option
| Option | Pros | Cons | Ethical Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compliance | Maintains good working relations, avoids immediate conflict. | Compromises integrity, contributes to misinformation, potentially illegal. | Violation of principles of honesty, objectivity, and accountability. |
| Discreet Resistance | Avoids direct confrontation, may subtly influence the outcome. | May not be effective, could be seen as complicity if unsuccessful. | Compromises integrity to some extent, lacks transparency. |
| Formal Reporting | Upholds ethical principles, ensures accountability, protects public interest. | Potential for retaliation, damage to career prospects, bureaucratic hurdles. | Demonstrates courage, integrity, and commitment to ethical governance. |
| Seeking Clarification | Allows for a peaceful resolution, may reveal misunderstanding. | May not be effective if the superior is determined to manipulate the data. | Demonstrates professional responsibility and a commitment to accuracy. |
| Resignation | Maintains personal integrity, sends a strong message against unethical practices. | Loss of livelihood, disruption to career, may not address the underlying problem. | Demonstrates unwavering commitment to ethical principles. |
Recommended Course of Action
Rakesh should first attempt Option 4: Seeking Clarification. This allows for a constructive dialogue and may resolve the issue without escalation. If the superior remains insistent, Rakesh should proceed with Option 3: Formal Reporting. While this carries risks, it is the most ethically sound course of action. He should document all communications and evidence related to the incident. He should also be aware of the provisions of the Whistleblower Protection Act, 2014, which provides safeguards for individuals reporting corruption or wrongdoing.
Legal and Institutional Framework
Rakesh’s actions are governed by the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, which emphasize integrity, honesty, and impartiality. The CVC (Central Vigilance Commission) Act, 2003 provides the legal framework for the CVC to investigate allegations of corruption and misconduct. Furthermore, the Right to Information Act, 2005 reinforces the principle of transparency and accountability in governance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rakesh faces a difficult ethical dilemma. While compliance might seem expedient, it compromises his integrity and undermines public trust. Discreet resistance is insufficient. Formal reporting, despite its risks, is the most ethically responsible course of action, aligning with the principles of good governance and the legal framework governing civil servants. Upholding ethical standards is paramount for maintaining the credibility and effectiveness of the public service.
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.