GS4 · UPSC Mains
You and Ajay were in college together, qualified for the civil services examination, trained, and worked in the same State. Over the years, you and Ajay became good friends and colleagues. Even the families became close to the extent of taking vacations and celebrating festivals together. Professionally, in the last 15 years, both grew, but the paths you and Ajay took differed. You kept your distance from political masters, preferred to be neutral, and refrained from being identified with any group, lobby, or ideology. But Ajay was not discreet about his leanings, and he was well-networked and connected. Because of his networking, Ajay always had postings considered "plum postings." Ajay was posted as CMD of Urban Infrastructure Projects, a high-profile Project with a huge outlay. At the same time, you were working in State Planning Commission for three years and were awaiting your promotion and new posting. When new postings were announced, you were surprised to see your transfer to Vigilance Department. Within a month of taking charge, you were ordered by your Departmental Secretary to conduct an inquiry discreetly into land dealings involving a Minister and his family. You were strictly told to keep it discreet and not to share any information about the investigation with anybody besides the Secretary. As you started the inquiry, you realized Ajay was closely involved with the Minister and his deals. As evidence started piling up, you were shocked to notice Ajay's questionable decisions favoring the Minister and friends. Further, you found evidence of Ajay having assets disproportionately much higher than his declared sources of income. When you shared the details with the Secretary; he immediately ordered you to search Ajay's office and home as he believed Ajay was the medium through which they could catch the Minister for shady land deals. You were in a bind as you knew a search operation would tarnish Ajay's reputation and be traumatic for the family. (a) What are the ethical issues and dilemmas involved in the above case? (b) What are the options available to you? (c) Select your chosen course of action after analyzing the options. (d) What must be your moral motivation in the above case? Should it be duty, care, or consequences? (Answer in 250 words)
GS4 · Case studies on the above issues GS4 · Probity in governance — concept of public service; philosophical basis; information sharing & transparency; RTI; codes of ethics; work culture; service delivery; corruption; challenges
| Topper | Rank | Source | Copy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animesh Jain | — | NextIAS | p.47 |
| Animesh Jain | — | UnlockIAS | p.47 |
| Sameer Goel | — | NextIAS | p.46 |
| NAZIA PARWEEN | — | NextIAS | p.47 |
| Ankit Agrawal | — | NextIAS | p.46 |
| Mrinal Kumar | — | NextIAS | p.46 |
| SYED ADEEL MOHSIN | — | NextIAS | p.47 |
| JASWANT MALIK | — | NextIAS | p.43 |
| MAHI SHARMA | — | NextIAS | p.52 |
| Muhammed Swalah T A | — | NextIAS | p.47 |
| Muhammed Swalah T A | — | NextIAS | p.47 |
| Ritika Chitlangia | — | Nextias | p.42 |