GS4 · UPSC Mains

You are an ACP posted in a city where a large railway staff colony borders an informal migrant settlement. The settlement — composed mostly of interstate workers and their families — has grown unregulated over the years, with no formal civic infrastructure. In the past month, the railway staff association has submitted multiple complaints alleging thefts, street- level drug abuse, and gambling around the colony perimeter. Two railway employees were recently mugged returning from a night shift, escalating pressure. Local news channels have picked up the story, and the divisional railway manager has written to your office demanding "visible, swift action." Your field teams confirm that small-scale drug activity and informal gambling do occur in the area, though crime rates are not statistically high. The area lacks lighting, sanitation, and youth outreach programs. Your constables also admit they've detained young men without FIRs "to control the mood." No formal arrests have followed. Meanwhile, the local MLA has privately asked you to "handle the issue quietly." He's lobbying to get the colony regularised ahead of elections and is concerned that arrests or media attention may alienate his vote base. He implies this could affect "harmony" and your "future in the district." NGOs working in the settlement advocate for de-addiction and youth counselling over raids. You are wondering about the how's of the action plan. Questions (a) What are the ethical issues and dilemmas involved in this case? (b) What are your options as a police officer? Critically examine their strengths and weakness. (c) What course of action will you take and how will you justify it? (Answer in 250 words)

20 marks · 250 words · 2 toppers answered this

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