GS4 · UPSC Mains

You are posted as the District Magistrate (DM) of a district in the Nav Pradesh state of the country. Ramesh, a newly joined SDM in your district, actively engages with the public and is also known for his fitness-related activities. He has a strong presence on social media platforms, where he frequently posts about his work life and fitness endeavors on his personal account. Furthermore, he encourages the public to report issues within the district through his personal social media accounts, and he responds to their concerns, ensuring prompt actions are taken to address these issues. His active presence on social media has garnered him a massive following, not only in the district but also beyond. Also, direct communication with the public has led to a perception of greater transparency and accessibility of district administration in the eyes of the public. While Ramesh receives praise for his work in enhancing the trust and credibility of the administration, Ramesh's social media activities have also raised concerns among some of his colleagues and superiors. They argue that his posts often go beyond mere updates and venture into self-promotion, potentially blurring the lines between his personal life and his professional responsibilities. They express apprehensions that Ramesh might be seeking personal attention or recognition rather than focusing on his core duties as an SDM. Some of his juniors lamented working with him, as he often scolds them in public, and that too in the presence of cameras. One day, a local MLA arrives at your office regarding a complaint that some of the posts by Ramesh are self-promoting in nature and expresses deep concern over the matter. He alleges that wherever the SDM goes, the normal functioning of the institution is hampered, and one of his official inspections near the highway resulted in heavy traffic congestion, leading to discomfort for commuters. He also says that while doing public work, Ramesh is perversely taking center stage and doesn't give enough credit to others. He expresses his apprehension that Ramesh might capitalize on this goodwill and may soon enter politics in the near future. He further said that in one of his posts, he seemingly divulged some classified information regarding the security apparatus of a high-level dignitary, which could have seriously jeopardized the dignitary's security arrangements. On enquiring Ramesh, he argues that it is the duty of a civil servant to convey all the important information to the public about different schemes of the department. It would also improve the image of the administration among the public. Being in touch with the public would also help him better understand and address grassroots issues. Also, his fitness-related activities are to create awareness about healthy lifestyles, especially among the youth. He argues that his center-stage appearances at functions are because of requests from the organizing authorities of the functions. He also asserts that there is no hidden agenda in his actions. Some of your senior authorities have also expressed reservations about the active participation of civil servants on social media. They argue that Ramesh's activities are merely part of his regular work and should not be glorified. They assert that public money should not be used to promote oneself. They argue that bureaucrats should prioritize public service without seeking personal branding, and such self-promotion can create an impression of self-aggrandizement and detract from the selfless nature of public service. Using fancy photos and highlighting official cars, residences, etc. as clickbait goes against the dignity that is expected of a public servant. By the very nature of the job, it is expected that bureaucracy should work behind a fine veil. Bureaucratic anonymity is a foundational value expected from a civil servant to ensure that a civil servant does not develop the negative externalities associated with the personality cult. Such social media posturing also runs the risk of civil servants playing to the gallery as every action comes under popular scrutiny. The point of reference becomes their social media viewership rather than the constitutional mandate. a) What are the ethical issues involved in the above case study? b) Critically assess the role of social media in administration. c) What are the various possible choices available to you and which course of action would you choose? Justify your choice.

20 marks · 20 words · 3 toppers answered this · seen 2025

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