GS4 · UPSC Mains
The national capital has been under the grip of an outbreak of dengue fever which has affected many in the city. Unseasonal rainfall, clogged drains, negligent administration and ignorance of the general public have led to water logging in various places in the capital, which has become the breeding grounds for mosquitos. Comprehensive coverage of the issue in national and international media has become an embarrassment for the ruling dispensation in the capital. To control the outbreak, the administration swung into action and a taskforce was created to control the situation in the city. The Chief Minister visited many areas which were hot spots of the dengue outbreak and announced that all the victims of dengue would be provided free treatment and be paid a government allowance to make up for the wage loss due to dengue. To identify the beneficiaries of the government's plan, Rajesh, a member of the taskforce, was given the responsibility of conducting a survey and recording the names of the victims. Rajesh conducted the survey diligently, working beyond his normal duty hours, to prepare the list of beneficiaries. Based on the survey, Rajesh prepared a draft list and submitted it to the head of the taskforce. Rajesh's list contained thousands of names and it was realized that the number of victims was much larger than originally anticipated. The head of the task force appreciated the hard work of Rajesh, but told him that such a long list of victims was unacceptable. He explained to Rajesh that giving government aid to such a large number of people was beyond the financial capacity of the state and presenting such a long list would only add to the embarrassment of the government. When Rajesh raised the contention that it was the order of the Chief Minister to give aid to every victim, the head of the taskforce further explained that it was the political expediency of the CM, as assembly elections are due in the next six months. He hinted that Rajesh should modify his list and include only those names who form the electorate of the capital and leave out others from the list as they are politically 'irrelevant'. He also indirectly told Rajesh that by giving a shorter list he could gain some political brownie points that could help him advance his career, while if he insisted on giving the complete list, he could land at the cross hairs of the ruling party. Rajesh understood that if he obliged the request of the head of the taskforce, it would mean leaving out the migrant population who are the most vulnerable section. Rajesh's mind tells him to follow what the head of the task force has asked him to do, but his conscience is exhorting him to say no. a) Based on this case study, identify the various ethical dilemmas faced by Rajesh. b) If you were in Rajesh's shoes, what would you have done? Present an assessment and justification of your suggested course of action.
GS4 · Case studies on the above issues GS4 · Public/civil service values & ethics in public administration — status & problems; ethical concerns & dilemmas; conflict of interest
| Topper | Rank | Source | Copy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avdhija Gupta | — · 2024 | Forumias | p.47 |
| Mudit Foujdar | — | Forumias | p.47 |