GS4 · UPSC Mains

You are the Superintendent of Police (SP) in a communally sensitive district. Recently, a young couple approached you seeking protection. They wish to get married, but they belong to different religions. Also, the girl is from an influential family, while the boy comes from a humble background. They are facing threats from the girl's family, who have warned them of dire consequences if they proceed with the marriage. The girl's family has fixed her marriage to a boy belonging to their community and is vehemently against interfaith marriage. The village elders have also expressed apprehensions that, if the matter is not resolved promptly, it could incite widespread rioting and lead to serious law and order problems. The local intelligence unit has corroborated these concerns in its report submitted to your office. The fears of the village elders have come true. Rumors and disagreements regarding the proposed marriage have caused communal tensions in the neighboring localities. In one such locality, a law-abiding and responsible citizen lives with his wife and son, Sahil. This locality, where people of different religions reside, has a history of maintaining overall harmony and peace despite occasional minor quarrels. But this time, it escalated to the point of rioting, during which Sahil came under the attack and was grievously injured. The rioters also set fire to many houses and vehicles, causing extensive damage to public property. Despite immediate and frantic calls to the police, no prompt action was taken. Sahil succumbed to his injuries the next day. A video of the brutal attack on Sahil emerged and went viral on social media. The incident was also covered extensively by the national media and has led to increased communal polarization in the district. On one hand, the couple feels increasingly threatened as many blame them for the situation; on the other hand, there are fears of another round of violence as some members of Sahil's community vowing to avenge his death. The grieving parents are devastated by the loss of their only child and seek justice. The district administration is under immense pressure to prevent further violence, ensure justice for Sahil's family, and protect the young couple. a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case. b) As the SP of the district, evaluate the options available to you. c) What course of action would you adopt to deal with the situation?

20 marks · 250 words · 4 toppers answered this · seen 2025

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