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APPROACH – ANSWER: G. S. MAINS MOCK TEST - 2356 (2024)

SECTION A
Answer the following questions in not more than 150 words each:
1. (a) How can formal education in India counteract family-dependent learning biases and
promote independent thinking? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• State the role of the family in the early socialization of children.
• List the existing family-dependent learning biases in India.
• Discuss how formal education can help counter these biases.
• Conclude appropriately.
Answer:
In India, family plays a pivotal role in the early learning and socialization of a child. The
environment created by the family often shapes the initial worldview, beliefs, and preferences of
children. However, this learning can sometimes enable biases influenced by the family's cultural,
socio-economic, and educational background.
Family-dependent learning biases in India:
• Gender stereotypes: Families often adhere to traditional gender roles while assigning
household work to children.
o For instance, girls are often involved in household chores, whereas the same is not expected from
boys.
• Occupational preferences: There is a strong emphasis on certain professions deemed as
'respectable' or financially stable, often sidelining arts and humanities.
o For example, preference for careers in IT and medicine over creative fields in India.
• Socio-economic differences: In many families, children grow up with ingrained perceptions
about caste and income differences.
o For example, differential treatment meted out to a child of a housemaid as compared to one’s
own child.
Formal education helps in countering the biases in the following ways:
• Diverse curriculum: A curriculum that integrates diverse perspectives from various fields
encourages students to explore different subjects and helps to break away from a narrow,
family-centric focus.
o For example, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020's "Multidisciplinary Holistic Education"
approach offers varied subject choices, allowing students to explore beyond traditional family-
influenced paths.
• Emphasis on critical thinking: Critical thinking exercises and problem-solving activities in the
formal education system challenge students to analyze information, question assumptions,
and develop independent perspectives.
o For example, debates, discussions, elocutions, etc. in classrooms encourage students to express
their opinions and listen to others, thus fostering independent thought.
• Inclusive environment: Formal education in schools allow children to learn with students from
diverse socio-economic backgrounds, which fosters inclusivity and fraternity.
o For example, the Right to Education Act, 2009 mandates all schools to reserve at least 25% seats
for students from poor backgrounds.
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 • Interactive learning methods: Formal education enhances practical learning by allowing
students to apply theoretical knowledge in a hands-on manner. It can broaden a student's
understanding and encourage independent thinking.
o For instance, ‘experiential learning’ such as sports-integrated education helps develop skills such
as collaboration, self-discipline, teamwork, responsibility, etc.
While the family forms the bedrock of a child's initial learning instilling moral values and basic
attitudes, formal education plays a crucial role in nurturing well-rounded, open-minded, and
impartial individuals.

1. (b) The rise of social media has increased the number of dopamine-chasing youngsters who want
instant gratification. Do you agree with this view? Give reasons. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• In the introduction, briefly discuss how the rise of social media has led to an increasing number
of dopamine-chasing youngsters.
• Mention arguments in support of the statement.
• Briefly mention the competitive edge given by social media to youngsters.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
The rise of social media and the addictive nature of smartphones have led to rapid, often habitual,
consumption of information facilitated by these devices. They provide means for dopamine-chasing
youngsters to quickly and continuously receive attention, validation, and distraction with each
swipe, like, and tweet. This can be discerned from the following:
• Impulsive buying: The rise of social media has introduced new dynamics of instant gratification
by popularizing visually appealing content and one-click shopping has led to impulsive
buying among the youth.
o For example, according to a Deloitte report, 29% of social media users are more likely to make
a purchase on the same day of using social media.
• Dopaminergic response: The algorithmic nature of social media feeds contributes to a
personalized and potentially addictive user experience leading to a rise in the number of
dopamine-chasing youngsters.
o For example, TikTok users watch a series of suggestions based on the content they are already
viewing due to the algorithm of the app and lose track of time because of release of dopamine in
their brain.
• Validation and self-esteem: Due to social media platforms, there is a rise in a culture wherein
young people are constantly seeking validation and instant gratification.
o For example, seeking validation through likes and comments on Instagram may lead to a
distorted sense of self-esteem among the youth.
• Fear of missing out (FOMO): The process of constantly checking social media causes users with
FOMO to miss out on the activities in real life that would contribute to a heightened sense of
satisfaction and belonging.
o For example, constant exposure to images and updates of social events, parties, or gatherings on
social media can evoke a sense of FOMO among youth.
• Constant comparison: Social media platforms contribute to heightened comparison among
the youth as they provide constant stream of content from influencers, celebrities, etc.
o For example, idealized depictions of celebrities may develop a desire for similar
accomplishments among the youth, seeking instant gratification by trying to replicate what they
see.
However, social media platforms are also rich sources of information and allow young people to
express themselves creatively through posts, videos, and other forms of content. Also, online social
interaction can promote healthy socialization among youngsters, especially when they are
experiencing stress or social isolation.

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 In this context, it is necessary to set limits in managing screen time and ensure that the youth maintain
a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Parents, teachers and influencers can
actively guide the younger generation in discerning the authenticity of online content and encourage
them to question what they encounter on social media platforms.

2. (a) Public relations are a key component in the operations of a private organisation. Discuss the
ethical considerations associated with managing public relations. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• Introduce the answer by defining public relations and explaining how they are a key component
in the operations of an organisation.
• Discuss the ethical considerations associated with managing public relations in a private
organization.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
Public relations (PR) is defined as a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial
relationships between organizations and their publics. In other words, public relations refer to
techniques or strategies that manage how information about an organization is disseminated to the
public.
They are a key component in the operations of an organization as they play a critical role in shaping
public perception and maintaining reputations.
Ethics serves as a moral compass for every profession and PR is no exception. Some of the key ethical
considerations associated with managing PR include:
• Transparency and Truthfulness: Accurate disclosures by organisations help maintain trust
and loyalty in the brand.
o For example, the company behind Dolmio and Uncle Ben's sauces openly disclosed that
some of their products should only be consumed once a week due to high salt, sugar or fat
content.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: PR efforts of organisations must respect individuals’ privacy
rights and adhere to applicable data protection laws while handling personal information. This
also aids brand building.
o For example, Apple’s strong commitment to protecting the data of its users has established
the brand as a privacy stalwart while Zoom’s reputation took a hit when it was sued for “zoom-
bombing”.
• Respect for Diversity and Inclusion: PR efforts should reflect cultural sensitivity and be
inclusive and respectful of diverse perspectives.
o For example, the Code of Business Principles of Hindustan Unilever Limited explicitly
underlines its commitment to promote human rights and equal opportunity for all.
• Accountability and Responsibility: Managing public relations entail promoting fairness and
socially responsible behavior on the part of their brands and considering their influence on the
community and environment.
o For example, Hyundai Motor and Kia recalled over 1.13 lakh vehicles in North America
because of a fire risk.
• Avoiding Manipulation: In their PR efforts, organisations should practice non-maleficence
and avoid using manipulative tactics, such as spreading false information to influence public
opinion. It should strive for open and honest communication based on facts.
o For example, manipulations as witnessed in cases like the Satyam scam, Yes Bank etc. should
be avoided.
PR efforts should adhere to the guidelines established by industry associations and follow principles
of veracity and beneficence to tackle ethical dilemmas.

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2. (b) What are the ethical concerns related to the use of surveillance technology to monitor
employee performance in the private sector? How can companies balance employee privacy with
performance tracking? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• In the introduction, briefly mention about the growing use of surveillance technology to monitor
employee performance.
• Mention the ethical issues with use of these surveillance techniques.
• Suggest ways to balance the privacy concerns with the need to track employee's performance.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
Advancements in technology have revolutionized workplace surveillance. It has led to the
"datafication" of employee behaviour ranging from productivity tracking to emotion recognition,
which promises efficiency but risks privacy and autonomy. This scrutiny necessitates a critical
ethical examination.
Ethical concerns related to workplace surveillance:
• Invasion of privacy: Surveillance tools like location tracking, video surveillance, etc. may intrude
into the personal space of employees, especially when working remotely.
• Adverse impact on creativity and problem solving: Over-surveillance might stifle creativity of
the employees as they may feel that their every action is being scrutinized. Studies suggest that
surveillance is associated with decreased problem-solving performance.
• Worker’s autonomy: Surveillance may be particularly risky when paired with prevailing top-
down management culture. The power of the manager goes beyond work outputs and into the
realm of employee’s behavior modification. It creates a powerful and individualized form of
control that threatens worker autonomy.
• Unequal effect: Surveillance is likely to reinforce and/or create disparities. Observer effects
(different performance while being watched) and stereotype threat are likely to impact
individuals differently based on personal characteristics such as gender, race, and sexual
orientation.
Balancing Privacy Concerns and Performance Tracking:
• Transparent Policies: Companies should establish comprehensive policies, articulating the
rationale and scope of monitoring to foster an environment of trust. For instance, a transparent
policy could state that email is monitored for business security, but personal messages are off-
limits.
• Data Minimization: Firms should adhere to the principle of collecting minimal data, targeting
only what's essential for performance evaluation to safeguard privacy. For example, instead of
tracking keystrokes, measure completed tasks against set benchmarks.
• Employee Consent: Employees should seek explicit consent for monitoring practices, ensuring
employees are informed and can exercise choice regarding their data.
• Performance Metrics: Organizations should utilize key performance indicators that reflect true
productivity, avoiding invasive activity tracking and respecting personal boundaries. Instead of
using software that logs website visits, project completion rates or client feedback should be
used as performance metric.
• Regular Review: Companies must conduct periodic audits of monitoring methods and refine
practices in line with evolving ethical norms and technological innovations.
While employee monitoring software can offer insights into performance, it is important to establish
a framework that upholds ethical standards and respects personal boundaries. Companies must
develop a culture of trust and transparency, where performance monitoring is balanced with the
protection of employee privacy.

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3. What does the following quotation convey to you in the present context.
(a) "Relativity applies to physics, not ethics" - Albert Einstein (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• Briefly explain the quote.
• Mention how relativity does not apply to ethics with examples supporting your arguments.
• Explain how relativity is relevant in ethics as well. Give appropriate examples.
• Provide a brief conclusion.
Answer:
The quote highlights that the relativistic nature of physical phenomena, as described in the theory of
relativity, does not necessarily extend to the realm of ethics. It emphasizes that there is a distinction
between the principles governing the physical world and those governing moral judgment.
Relativity doesn’t apply to ethics:
• Universal ethical values: Certain ethical values like truthfulness, honesty, freedom etc.
transcend cultural, societal, or individual differences and are universally valid.
o For example, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights emphasizes a set of ethical
principles applicable to all people.
• Need for consistent principled reasoning: With relativity in ethics, individuals may favour
personal interests over societal well-being. This would hamper fairness and justice and may
consolidate prejudices prevalent in society.
o For example, companies engaging in unfair wages, poor working conditions, child labor etc. to
reduce costs and maximize profit.
• Global Moral Objectivity: In an increasingly interconnected world, a relative approach to ethics
can be an obstacle in cultivating global moral responsibilities and establishing just global systems.
o For example, the need to demonstrate environmentally ethical behaviour by all nations
regarding their INDCs.
At times, relativity is relevant in ethics:
• Cultural diversity: Moral standards are shaped by the beliefs, practices, and norms of specific
societies. Thus, what is considered morally acceptable or unacceptable is contingent on the
cultural context.
o For example, consuming meat is a normal dietary choice in some cultures, while in others it is
considered ethically problematic.
• Avoiding moral imperialism: Relativity applies to ethics as individuals need to have the
autonomy to determine their moral values and ethical principles based on the situation.
o For example, a civil servant may uphold strict adherence to rules in professional life but
kindness may trump his decisions in personal life.
• Evolving moral compass: Ethical perspectives can change over time within the same society.
o For example, slavery historically accepted in many societies is universally condemned now.
• Fostering tolerance and peaceful coexistence: Ethical relativity acknowledges the existence of
diverse cultural values. It helps approach diverse ethos with humility and openness and
establish cultural pluralism.
o For example, coexistence of diverse religious practices and beliefs in India.
Therefore, a harmonious balance between relativism and universalism is crucial in tackling the
ethical complexities and promoting the well-being of all.

3. (b) "The law is the public conscience"- Thomas Hobbes (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• Explain the quote in the introduction.
• Give instances highlighting how the law is influenced by public conscience.
• Mention instances where law goes against or is not influenced by public conscience.
• Conclude appropriately.
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Answer:
Thomas Hobbes in his work ‘Leviathan’ states that the law is the public conscience, by which an
individual is to be guided by the State. The quote suggests that laws are a manifestation of societal
values and norms, acting as a collective expression of what is considered right or wrong within a
given community.
The law serves as a formalized expression of what a community deems acceptable or
unacceptable behaviour, which include:
• Respecting human rights: Many laws incorporate principles of human rights, reflecting a global
consensus on the fundamental dignity and worth of every individual. For example, various
provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), such as Articles 7 (equality before
law and equal protection of law), 9 (protection against arbitrary arrest, detention or exile), 19
(freedom of opinion and expression), etc. are contained in Part III of the Constitution of India, such
as Articles 14, 22, 19, etc.
• Protecting privacy: Advances in technology and concerns about privacy have prompted public
debates and have led to the development of new laws, such as the General Data Protection
Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 in India, etc.
• Preventing corruption: Concerns related to corruption in public organizations have led to
enactment of various laws like the Right to Information Act, 2005, Whistle Blowers Protection Act,
2014 and Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 in India.
However, sometimes law and public conscience can go against each other, which can be seen
as follows:
• Unjust laws: Sometimes laws are extremely unjust and go against the public conscience. For
instance, apartheid law continued to exist in South Africa even when it was deemed as an inhumane
practice elsewhere in the world.
• Unjust social norms: Public conscience can be subverted by social conditioning and norms. For
example, the Sati system in 19th century India was justified on the grounds of public conscience but
the Prohibition of Sati Act, 1829 (Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829) criminalized the inhuman practice.
• Authoritarian laws: Often authoritarian States impose rules and regulations that may be
contrary to the values, rights, or preferences of the general public. For example, internet
censorship in China to block access to selected foreign websites.
Thus, public conscience plays a crucial role in shaping and reflecting the social contract within a
society and in the formulation of laws. However, the relationship between public conscience and the
law is dynamic, and there are instances where they may align harmoniously or come into conflict. In
the latter instance, the two need to be reconciled.

4. (a) The desire to become a ‘unicorn’ has led to many start-ups abandoning good business
practices. In this context, identify the corporate governance issues in start-ups in India. What
measures can be taken to address them? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• Introduce with some facts related to growth of start-ups in India.
• Bring out the corporate governance issues in start-ups.
• Suggest measures to address the same.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
In India, there are more than 70,000 startups, and more than 100 of them have become unicorns.
However, as more and more start-ups are getting bigger, numerous instances of corporate
governance issues have come to light.

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 Some of the issues are:
• Misreporting of financials: Often, the pressure to raise money from Venture Capital leads to
misreporting of financials from the founders. For instance, co-founder of Go-Mechanic publicly
admitted to grave errors in financial reporting.
• Lack of transparency: Start-ups operating in opaque manner fail to disclose its key decisions on
a timely basis. In June, 2023 Deloitte resigned as the auditor of Byju’s due to delayed release of
financial statements by the company.
• Concentration of power: Heavily centralized decision-making power in a firm can lead to
arbitrary decisions, conflicts of interest, and a lack of checks and balances as seen in the case of
Ashneer Grover and BharatPe.
• Unethical business practices: Aggressive growth and success is often built on the back of an
abusive work environment and unscrupulous sales practices. For example, BYJU’s was accused
of mis-selling the courses, doing mass layoff while splurging between $30 million-$40 millions
for sponsorship of FIFA World Cup 2022.
To deal with aforementioned issues, appropriate corporate governance measures are needed:
• Role of the leader: The founders should be responsible for creating the proper organizational
culture. They need to follow the correct governance metrics., while keeping personal matters/
interests at bay.
• Detailed scrutiny from investors: The investors giving money to start-ups need to play a strong
role in setting up processes and standards in concurrence with the founder to ensure adherence
to good corporate governance practices.
• Appointing Directors: Instead of a centralized decision-making body, a formal board of directors
can ensure oversight and management, as well as strategic advice and leadership.
• Setting realistic expectations: The startup ecosystem in India should get rid of ‘growth at all
cost’ mentality, backed by venture capitalists. Achievable targets should be set, while focusing on
business process, instead of business valuations.
The principle of a healthy balance between the interests of different stakeholders is at the heart of
corporate governance. The MAARG (Mentorship, Advisory, Assistance, Resilience and Growth)
Portal, by Startup India, should be utilized by the start-ups is an essential platform for start-ups
seeking guidance in Corporate Governance.

4. (b) What do you understand by 'fiduciary duty' in the context of corporate governance in India?
Illustrate with suitable examples. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• Define fiduciary duty in the introduction.
• Mention the different fiduciary duties in the context of good governance and substantiate with
examples.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
In the context of corporate governance, ‘fiduciary duty’ refers to the obligation of individuals who
hold positions of trust and responsibility within a company to manage the assets and affairs of the
organization for the benefit of its stakeholders.
In a company, the Board of Directors has the following fiduciary duties:
• Duty of loyalty: The decision makers within the company should act in the interest of the
company, and not in their own interest.
o For example, by not engaging in self-dealing transactions, that is, transactions that involve a
conflict of interest.
• Duty of disclosure: This duty pertains to providing comprehensive disclosure to the
shareholders. It emphasizes on transparency and openness in the decision-making processes.
o For example, companies disclosing their financial performance through periodic financial
reports including the income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, etc.
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 • Duty of independence: The duty of independence requires that the decision makers make
independent and objective assessments without being influenced by personal interests,
conflicts of interest, or external pressures.
o For example, appointment of Independent Directors in order to bring an element of objectivity
to the board processes and uphold the interests of minority shareholders.
• Duty to act in good faith: It is the duty to act honestly, with sincerity, and with a genuine
commitment to the best interests of the company.
o For example, if a company’s contract imposes obligations that will continue even after the
agreement has ended, the directors may be required to carry out these obligations in good faith.
• Duty to care: It is the duty to pay attention and to make good decisions while managing a
company. It is a critical component of maintaining trust and accountability, and for ensuring long-
term sustainability of the company.
o For example, thoroughly analysing and evaluating strategic decisions that can significantly
impact the company, implementing effective risk management practices to safeguard the
company against potential threats, etc.
In a business landscape, a moral approach to corporate fiduciary duties adequately protects the
interest of all stakeholders and plays a foundational role in fostering ethical conduct and
accountability in companies.

5. (a) Can war be ethical? Analyse in the context of international conflicts. (Answer in 150 words)10
Approach:
• Introduce by providing a brief context of contemporary international conflicts.
• Mention arguments citing situations when a war can be justified as ethical with suitable examples.
• Provide arguments citing situations when a war is unethical with suitable examples.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
Contemporary international conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine conflict
have raised questions about the ‘ethics of war’. While the prevailing view is often that war is a tragic
and undesirable outcome, sometimes war can be ethical as given below:
• Just Cause: War can be considered ethical if the reason is justifiable and morally sound.
o For example, NATO's intervention in the Kosovo War (1999) to reverse the Serb campaign
of ethnic cleansing.
• Self-defense: When a nation faces an imminent, grave and existential threat, engaging in war for
survival can be considered ethical.
o For example, India's intervention in the Bangladesh Liberation War (1971) to address the
escalating refugee crisis and secure borders.
• Last resort: War can be considered ethical if all peaceful and viable alternatives have been
exhausted.
o For example, Military action in the Indo-Portuguese War (1961) was taken after prolonged
diplomatic efforts to integrate Goa failed.
• Right intention: The use of force by States may be ethical if done to address widespread human
rights violations.
o For example, interventions by the UN as part of a wider international humanitarian and
peacekeeping effort.
However, war can’t be ethical because it involves:
• Inherent disregard for human life: Deliberate or indiscriminate targeting of civilian
populations, including women, children, and non-combatants, is considered morally
reprehensible.
o For example, in the Israel-Hamas war (2023), more than 5,300 children have reportedly been
killed.
• Violation of fundamental rights: The humiliation, abuse, and mistreatment of captured
individuals during war represent the dehumanization of the enemy.
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 o For example, the brutal treatment of Filipino and American prisoners of war in the Bataan
Death March.
• Negative long-term consequences: Wars can have far-reaching consequences such as
displacement, environmental damage, and economic instability.
o For example, the civil war in Syria forced millions of families to flee their homes.
• Mass destruction: Wars normalize violence as a conflict resolution method and the potential
for massive destruction and indiscriminate harm from weapons of mass destruction raises ethical
concerns exponentially.
o For example, the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during the Second World
War.
There are three major discourses surrounding war and ethics - just war theory, realism and
pacifism. While diverse perspectives enrich theory, we should strive for a world where war is
resorted to extremely rarely.

5. (b) How can Kautilya's 'Arthashastra' guide today's leaders in attaining ethical and effective
governance? (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• In Introduction, give a brief background about Kautilya and Arthashastra.
• Discuss the lessons contemporary leaders can learn from Arthashastra in order to uphold ethical
and effective governance.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
Kautilya was the Prime Minister under the reign of Chandragupta Maurya (321-297 BCE), founder of
the Mauryan Empire. He is best known as the author of the political treatise Arthashastra, which
provides timeless leadership lessons. It not only transformed Chandragupta into a successful
monarch but guides future leaders as well.
By understanding the core teachings of this ancient text, one can learn the following fundamental
leadership lessons for ethical and effective governance:
• Janapada and Praja (Prioritize People): Kautilya emphasized the vital role of people's
happiness in governance. It translates to the modern principle of placing the people’s well-being
at the forefront.
o For Example, MGNREGA program in India prioritizes the livelihood and well-being of people in
rural areas, directly impacting their lives and economic sustenance.
• Suttha and Sannidhya (Openness and Accessibility): Accessibility is critical for trust and
effective governance. Leaders must be reachable and open to communication, ensuring
inclusivity and engagement at all levels.
o For instance, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's "Didi Ke Bolo" campaign allows
citizens to voice their concerns directly to the CM.
• Danda and Pratipatti (Accountability and Recognition): Accountability is fundamental to a
just system. Recognizing and rewarding merit while being fair in reprimand aligns with ethical
governance and encourages a culture of excellence.
o In India, RTI Act empowers citizens to seek information from public institutions while promoting
transparency and accountability in governance.
• Karya Siddhi (Decisive Action): Decisiveness ensures that opportunities are seized and issues
are addressed promptly, reflecting Kautilya's advice against procrastination and for timely
execution.
o For Example, Franklin D. Roosevelt’ New Deal was a decisive action that reshaped the U.S.
economy in the wake of the Great Depression.
• Rajdharma (Duty of the Leader): Upholding Rajdharma signifies a leader's commitment to
impartiality and justice in governance, akin to ensuring the rights and well-being of all citizens.
o Nelson Mandela's role in South Africa's nation building and vision for a united, inclusive, and
reconciled society exemplifies this virtue.
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 • Utsah Shakti (Motivation and Drive): Motivation drives progress. A leader’s energy and drive
are infectious, inspiring the people to work towards shared goals with enthusiasm.
o The role of PM Modi in 'Swachh Bharat' campaign exemplified motivational leadership for
nationwide cleanliness.
In the wise words of Arthashastra, 'In the happiness of his subjects lie the King’s happiness, in their
welfare his welfare.' These enduring principles, when internalized by leaders, can pave the path to
an equitable, prosperous, and well-governed state.

6. (a) Explain the term 'social cohesion'. Discuss its importance for good governance. (Answer in
150 words) 10
Approach:
• Define social cohesion in introduction.
• Discuss its importance for good governance with suitable examples.
• Conclude appropriately.
Answer:
Social cohesion refers to the degree to which individuals and groups are bound together in a
mutually supportive manner. It is characterized by the horizontal relations among citizens and
vertical relations between citizens and the state, with complex interdependencies.
Importance of social cohesion for good governance:
• Promotes trust: Societies that boast higher levels of social cohesion provide a better institutional
framework for economic growth and attract investment by offering an environment of trust
and clearly defined rules.
o For example, the process of social integration in Hiware Bazar village, Maharashtra helped
inhabitants of the village achieve success through investing in local ecology for economic good.
• Inclusive and participatory governance: Social cohesion fosters a sense of community
ownership of policies. When individuals feel a strong connection to their community, they are
more likely to actively participate in and support the implementation of policies thereby creating
a more inclusive and participatory governance environment.
o For example, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan encouraged community participation and ownership
by involving citizens, local authorities, and various organizations.
• Promotes social justice: Socially cohesive society ensures the welfare of all its members,
minimising inequalities and avoiding polarisation thereby promoting social justice. Such a
society includes a mutually supportive community of individuals pursuing these common goals
by democratic means.
o For example, by fostering social cohesion at the grassroots level, Kudumbashree initiative in
Kerala not only empowered women but also contributed to social justice by poverty alleviation,
reducing gender disparities, etc.
• Address security issues: In a cohesive society, law enforcement works collaboratively with the
community and supports the concept of community policing. When there is a strong
relationship between the police and the public, it becomes easier to prevent and address security
issues in the community.
o For example, community policing initiatives like the Mohalla committee in Maharashtra,
Janamaithri in Kerala, Friends of Police in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, and Maithri in Andhra
Pradesh have produced desired results.
In many countries, social cohesion is threatened by social tensions or institutional biases that exclude
people with different ethnic, religious or cultural backgrounds. Though no society is fully cohesive,
social cohesion is an ideal to be striven for. It constantly needs to be nurtured, improved and
adapted.

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6. (b) The profound wisdom in the teachings of Kabir provide a moral compass for individuals to
navigate the challenges of the modern world. Discuss. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• Introduce by highlighting the teachings of Kabir.
• Explain how Kabir’s teachings provide a moral compass for individuals to navigate the challenges
of the modern world.
• Conclude appropriately.
Answer:
Kabir was Bhakti saint whose life was an epitome of human virtue and his teachings are relevant even
today. The teachings of Kabir Das reveal a profound wisdom based on the understanding of the
human psychology and spirituality.
It provides a moral compass for individuals to navigate the challenges of the modern world in the
following ways:
• Self-control: Kabir's teachings on self-control echo with the impulse control, which is very
crucial in today's fast paced world. His writings suggest that one who remains calm in various
situations is the wealthiest, highlighting the significance of maintaining composure in both
sorrow and joy.
• Social awareness: Kabir's teachings consistently highlight the virtues of compassion, empathy
and understanding. This teaching of Kabir can help individuals navigate through the turbulence
of religious dogmas and social inequalities.
• Conflict resolution: Kabir highlighted the idea of harmony and unity to promote cooperation
and mutual understanding. This teaching of Kabir can be a very crucial guide in bringing solutions
for the situations of conflicts arising out of animosity and hatred.
• Accepting criticism and feedback: Kabir's couplets advocate humility and willingness to learn.
It aligns with the principle of constant self-reflection and a commitment to personal growth. This
teaching of Kabir inspires individuals to constantly introspect regarding their own weaknesses,
be open to criticisms from others and work upon them to become a better human being.
• Value of time: One of the Kabir’s couplets highlights the importance of time. His message is
crucial in a day and age, when the youth wastes time in frivolous activities. He says that time is as
precious as diamond which should be utilized for doing things that matters.
• Humanity above all: Kabir did not subscribe to any faith. For him, humanity was supreme and it
can only be served by having an attitude of affection towards the downtrodden irrespective of
their caste or creed.
The ethical and moral values of Kabir’s teachings are timeless. Incorporating them into our education
system can help students not only excel academically but also become responsible and ethical
citizens. It can make education not just informative but also transformative, instilling values that
are crucial for navigating the challenges of the modern world.

6. (c) Access to information is the bedrock of good governance. In this regard, discuss how the Right
to Information Act aims to strengthen ethical governance in India. (Answer in 150 words) 10
Approach:
• Explain the significance of access to information in ensuring good governance.
• Discuss how the Right to Information (RTI) Act aims to strengthen ethical governance in India.
• Bring out some challenges associated with the RTI Act.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
Access to information is indispensable in a democracy, as it forms the bedrock of trust between an
individual and the government. It makes citizens aware about government schemes/policies,
promotes participatory governance, bridges the gap between the government and the public and
enhances public trust in governance.
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 The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 aims to strengthen ethical governance in India in the
following ways:
• Promotes transparency: The rights provided under various Sections of this Act ensure greater
transparency with regard to the work of public authorities.
o For instance, under Section 2(j) of the RTI Act, a citizen has the right to access information
held by any public authority and the right to inspection of work, documents, records, etc.
• Ensures accountability: The RTI Act makes public authorities answerable to the general public
thus ensuring accountability.
o For example, under Section 4(1)(d) of the RTI Act, every public authority is compelled to
communicate reasons for its administrative and quasi-judicial decisions to the affected persons.
• Promoting probity: RTI is an instrument against misuse of discretionary powers and secrecy,
which are the breeding ground for corruption.
o For example, the RTI Act has helped expose various scams, such as the Adarsh Society scam,
Commonwealth Games scam, Indian Red Cross Society scam, etc.
• People's empowerment through participation: The RTI Act has made it easier for citizens to
participate in the government decisions and has actively encouraged them to do so.
o For instance, around 60 lakh RTI applications are filed in India annually.
Despite the RTI Act being an important tool to promote ethical governance in India, there are certain
associated challenges:
• Low level of awareness: Awareness about RTI is lower among the marginalized
communities, such as women, rural population, SCs, STs, etc. For example, according to one survey
by PwC, average awareness level about the Act among women was 12% in comparison to 26%
awareness level among men.
• Inadequate protection of whistleblowers: Despite measures such as the Whistle Blowers
Protection Act, 2014, there have been multiple cases of assault and murder of RTI activists
throughout the country.
• Lack of proper implementation: The implementation of the RTI Act is uneven. For example,
State Information Commissions (SIC) in Jharkhand and Tripura were defunct between 2011 and
2022. Further, backlog of appeals and complaints against concerned officials is increasing.
The RTI Act is a powerful tool to support democracy and promote ethical governance. Wider publicity
and awareness of the legislation, and effective protection of whistleblowers is required to facilitate
its growth and development.

SECTION B
In the following questions, carefully study the cases presented and then answer the questions that follow
(in around 250 words):
7. As a recently appointed senior officer in the Public Works Department (PWD), you are in charge
of an under-construction hospital project that received clearance prior to your tenure. On
inspection, you find out that the construction is of substandard quality and if completed in the
present state, the building may collapse leading to loss of life and public money.
On bringing the issue to the notice of your seniors, you begin to face intense pressure from
multiple quarters. You have been conveyed that the project is not only crucial for providing
tertiary health services to the people of the district and adjoining areas, but is also a poll promise
of the ruling party. Further, elections are around the corner and there is intense pressure on you
to complete the project at the earliest. However, you realise that rectifying the structural issues
is the only viable option but this will significantly delay the completion of the project.
(a) Identify the ethical issues faced by you in the given situation.
(b) Evaluate the options available to you.
(c) What course of action would you adopt as the PWD officer and why? (Answer in 250 words)
20

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Approach:
• Give a brief introduction to the case highlighting the dilemma.
• Explain the ethical issues faced by you as the PWD officer.
• Mention the options available to you and evaluate each one of them.
• Outline the course of action that you would adopt and give reasons.
• Conclude briefly.
Answer:
The given case highlights the conflict faced by a senior officer of PWD between ethical responsibility
and external pressures that a public servant faces in conducting his professional duties.
(a) Ethical issues faced:
• Professional negligence: Though clearance was granted before my tenure, it indicates a lack
of due diligence and dereliction of duty on the part of the department.
• Breach of duty of care: Now it is a matter of my professional responsibility and integrity
to not violate the principle of accountability to the public.
• Potential risk of loss of life: The substandard quality construction risks wastage of public
money as well as structural failure, endangering patients, staff and visitors.
• Undue influence and impartiality: The pressure from seniors to expedite the project raises
concerns about partisanship decision-making.
• Impact on the well-being of beneficiaries: There is a moral dilemma in balancing public
need versus public safety. The urgency of healthcare provision has to be weighed against
the need for structural integrity of hospital building.
(b) Evaluation of options available:
Option 1: To expedite the construction of building while exploring options to mitigate the
risks.
• Pros:
o It may lead to short-term gain of meeting immediate political expectations.
o Safety measures would reduce risks to human life while balancing their immediate
health needs.
• Cons:
o Quick safety measures might not completely prevent adverse consequences eroding
public trust in the PWD.
o It involves compromising on professional integrity and exposes the officer to
potential legal repercussions.
Option 2: Persuade seniors and political executives to allow construction after rectification of
structural issues.
• Pros:
o It prioritizes public safety by addressing the structural issues before proceeding with
construction.
o It reflects a commitment to transparency, accountability, and professional standards.
• Cons:
o It will delay the project, which may lead to disappointment in the public in need of
tertiary healthcare.
o There could be resistance from political executives who prioritize expedited project
completion.
Option 3: Reach out to national-level external agencies anonymously with a written report.
• Pros:
o It will lead to an unbiased action on the project at hand and uphold public interest.
o Anonymity may protect against potential backlash from the department.

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 • Cons:
o Since the issue was raised within the department already, it involves the risk of
escalating conflict with the superiors and political entities.
o Corrective actions by external agencies may lead to an immediate halt in construction.
(c) Course of action:
• I will engage structural engineers to conduct a thorough structural assessment and make a
detailed report in compliance with the National Building Code of India.
• Using it, I will try to persuade seniors and ruling party members about the dangers of
delivering a sub-standard project, which may collapse in the future and damage the
reputation of the administration and the ruling party.
• I will present a comprehensive proposal for rectifying the structural issues with a
detailed plan, timeline, and estimated costs for the necessary corrections.
• If needed, as a last resort, I will anonymously provide the report to the external agencies to
take further action.
It will give seniors and the ruling party a chance to have a clear look at the possible ramifications.
This would ensure that I remain true to my responsibility with public interest taking centre stage
in decision-making.
The ability of a public servant to stand up for what is right and demonstrate fortitude and moral
courage is crucial. These qualities help navigate the complexities involving ethical dilemmas,
practical constraints, and institutional pressures in an effective manner.

8. You are a final-year undergraduate student enrolled in a professional degree. As part of the
mandatory final semester curriculum, you had to enroll in a notoriously difficult course.
Unfortunately, your performance in the mid-semester examination of the course was not
satisfactory, and you need to attain a very good score in the final examination to pass the course.
Failure in this course would defer the conferment of your degree for an additional semester. Not
passing this course would also jeopardize the job offer you have received from a multinational
company, as it is contingent upon successful completion of the degree. This job is crucial for you
and your family's well-being, especially considering the significant sacrifices your father has
made to support your education, and the current challenging conditions at home.
Considering this situation, your close friend confides in you that he can help you pass the course.
He reveals that the lecturer inadvertently attached the file that included the answers to the final
examination of the course while uploading course documents on the University's portal.
Although the lecturer promptly rectified his error and removed the file, your friend successfully
managed to download it. When you asked him about the chance of getting caught, he assured
you that the University's digital infrastructure does not provide the lecturer with the ability to
check if the file was downloaded. However, the University's ethical guidelines strictly prohibit
students from sitting for exams if they possess unauthorized knowledge of the answers, with
severe penalties for violations.
(a) Given that no other student enrolled in the course will be harmed in any way even if you
access the answers and perform well in the final exam, why should you refrain from
accessing the answers?
(b) You are aware that your friend has seen the answers, will you report him to the lecturer or
the University authorities? Justify your answer. (Answer in 250 words) 20
Approach:
• Give a brief overview of the case.
• State your reasons for not accessing the answers in the given situation.
• Evaluate the various options available to you with respect to your friend having access to the
answers and justify your action in this regard.
• Conclude accordingly.

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Answer:
In the given case, the ethical dilemma revolves around the temptation to access unauthorized
answers to pass a crucial course against the backdrop of personal and familial aspirations.
(a) I should refrain from accessing the answers despite the assurance of no direct harm to
other students on several key ethical and moral considerations, which include:
• Integrity and moral values: The cornerstone of ethical behaviour lies in maintaining
integrity. Using the unauthorized answers to pass the examination contradicts the principles
of honesty and fairness. I should do the right thing even when no one is watching.
• Long-term consequences: Resorting to dishonest means may provide short-term relief but,
if discovered, it could lead to severe penalties and may tarnish my academic and
professional reputation irreparably. For example, in 2012, Lance Armstrong was stripped of
his seven Tour de France titles after he admitted to doping.
• Setting a wrong precedent: Actions set precedents for future behaviour. Succumbing to
unethical practices in challenging times may set a dangerous precedent in my professional
life, where ethical dilemmas are often more complex.
• Self-respect and self-worth: Success achieved through unethical means will undermine my
self-respect and self-worth. The knowledge of having achieved a degree or job through
dishonesty can lead to lasting personal and psychological impacts.
• Respect for the education system: Adhering to the University’s ethical guidelines means
respecting the sanctity of the education system, which is designed to evaluate genuine
understanding and learning.
While the pressure to succeed and the challenging personal circumstances are acknowledged,
maintaining ethical integrity is paramount.
(b) In the given situation, I would choose to persuade my friend to come clean about having
unauthorized access to the examination answers. The reasons are:
• Friendship and empathy: Considering the impact of reporting on my friend's academic and
future career, a direct conversation with him could make him understand how he is
committing a mistake in this case. Further, it could prevent him from adverse
consequences if he gets caught in the future.
• Moral responsibility: As a member of the academic community, it is my responsibility to
convince my friend to come forward and respect his duty without immediately resorting
to reporting.
• Preventing unfair advantage: Persuading my friend to not use the answers helps maintain
fairness and equity in the evaluation process.
If my friend refuses to come clean after our discussion, I would consider reporting the matter to
the University authorities, as the larger ethical obligation to the academic community would
outweigh my personal relationship with him.
Reasons for reporting it to the authorities:
• Ethical responsibility: Reporting the issue aligns with my ethical responsibility to uphold
the rules and integrity of the academic system.
• Long-term consequences: Both my friend and I could face severe consequences if the matter
is discovered in the future. Reporting it now might mitigate the potential damage to our
future academic and professional lives.
• Deters future misconduct: Reporting it to the authorities will set a precedent for others to
follow and help prevent such incidents in the future.
This decision in such situations should be guided by commitment to ethical principles, empathy and
understanding of the personal dynamics involved.

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9. Bhushan is an experienced sales representative at a large multinational information technology
company. He has worked there for the past many years and has developed strong friendships
within the company. Bhushan has been good friends with Manoj since they joined the company
around the same time.
Over the last few months, Manoj shared with Bhushan some of the financial challenges that he
has been facing on a personal level. Bhushan did his best to be a supportive friend. Manoj had
also informed Bhushan that he was taking some risky moves at work to come up with some extra
money to support his family. However, he never fully disclosed what that entailed.
Unexpectedly, Manoj left the company, leaving Bhushan shocked and suspicious. Bhushan was
assigned to take over Manoj’s sales territories. During the transition, he discovered the extent of
the financial harm that the company suffered as a result of Manoj’s actions. Through careful
examination of sales transactions and accounting records, it became evident to Bhushan that
Manoj had engaged in some seemingly fraudulent activities.
Reflecting on their past conversations, Bhushan realized that Manoj’s desperate need for quick
money had likely driven him to engage in such behaviour. Bhushan felt a sense of responsibility
and questioned whether he could have prevented the situation. Bhushan wants to disclose all he
knows to the company but he is worried that doing so might lead to serious consequences for
Manoj, who was already dealing with significant challenges.
It is to be noted that Manoj's conduct did not cause a substantial financial loss to the company.
Although Bhushan empathized with Manoj’s difficult circumstances, there is a possibility that
this issue may surface during an internal audit by the company. This would pose a threat to
Bhushan’s current employment as well as future job prospects.
(a) What are the ethical dilemmas that Bhushan faces?
(b) What options does Bhushan have? Evaluate each of these with their merits and demerits.
(Answer in 250 words) 20
Approach:
• Briefly write the crux of the case study.
• Highlight the ethical dilemmas that Bhushan faces.
• Bring out the various options available to Bhushan and their associated merits and demerits.
• Conclude accordingly.
Answer:
This case pertains to the ethical dilemma between professional and personal relations. The ability to
maintain professional integrity in the workplace has a powerful impact on one’s productivity,
performance and reputation.
(a) Ethical dilemmas that Bhushan faces:
• Loyalty to the company versus friendship with Manoj: On the one hand, Bhushan has to
demonstrate his loyalty by upholding the interests of the company while on the other hand,
he will have to make an exception in order to help his friend, Manoj.
• Professional integrity versus personal interest: On the one hand, Bhushan has to act in
accordance with professional ethics, which stresses upon integrity and impartiality while
on the other hand, he has to think of his job security, as internal audit could jeopardize his
present and future job prospects.
• Empathy versus responsibility: Bhushan faces the dilemma of understanding and being
empathetic towards Manoj’s circumstances and discharging his duty to bring into light
Manoj’s misappropriations.
(b) Options available to Bhushan in the given circumstances include:
1. Avoid reporting the matter: Bhushan can decide to not disclose the information, fearing the
potential repercussions for Manoj. This option prioritizes personal well-being over professional
responsibility.

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 • Merits:
o It will uphold his loyalty towards his friend and prevent Manoj from facing adverse
consequences.
o It demonstrates compassionate and empathetic understanding of the circumstances
faced by Manoj.
o As the loss is not substantial, it would not impact the company.
• Demerits:
o It will lead to compromise on his professional responsibility towards the company.
o It may encourage fraudulent activities due to lack of probity on the part of employees.
o It may come up in a future inquiry that Bhushan did not report about it earlier and
threaten his job.
2. Report to the higher management: Bhushan can choose to disclose all the information he has
about Manoj's fraudulent activities to the higher management of the company.
• Merits:
o He will fulfill his professional responsibility towards the company.
o It will ensure that ethical values like probity, honesty, etc. are upheld and he will take
a stand against corrupt practices.
o It will prevent further financial losses for the company.
• Demerits:
o It risks damaging his relationship with Manoj, and could lead to adverse consequences
for Manoj.
o Bhushan could be questioned as to why he did not report it earlier and waited for
Manoj to leave the company. This would demonstrate lack of proactiveness and
stakeholder approach in the given situation.
3. Asking Manoj to report the issue on his own, failing which he would do so: Bhushan can
choose to talk to Manoj privately, urging him to confess and rectify the situation. This option
prioritizes their friendship and allows Manoj to take responsibility.
• Merits:
o It demonstrates emotional intelligence, communication and empathy. Further, there
will be clarity on the issue before reaching a conclusion.
o It gives a chance to Manoj to present himself with his circumstances to the
management.
o This would save his friendship as well as uphold his professional integrity.
o This would also prevent adversarial inquiry against Bhushan.
• Demerits:
o Manoj may not agree to do so and may even be offended by Bhushan’s advice. This
could impact their friendship.
In the given situation, Option 3 i.e., talking to Manoj and convincing him to report the issue would be
the most appropriate course of action for Bhushan to reconcile loyalty to his friend, his commitment
to integrity, and his own professional well-being. Further, if Manoj does not agree to do so then
Bhushan can report the fraudulent activities to the company directly. However, he should also share
his concerns about Manoj's financial struggles and the impact it might have had on his decision-
making. By doing so, Bhushan will show empathy towards Manoj's situation while acknowledging the
need for accountability within the professional context.

10. As a senior officer in the Urban Development Department, you oversee a significant development
project in a city celebrated for its ancient monuments and rich cultural heritage. This city is a
contender for the UNESCO World Heritage City designation. The project aims to construct a new
corridor to enhance access to key historical sites, upgrade infrastructure, and establish
commercial complexes to accommodate the needs of an expanding tourist base.
This development initiative entails the demolition of numerous historic buildings, many of which
are integral to the city's cultural and architectural identity, having stood for centuries. This
action has sparked substantial unrest among local inhabitants, including residents and
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 shopkeepers, who are worried about being displaced and potentially receiving insufficient
compensation. Various cultural groups have protested, arguing that the project endangers the
city's historical essence. There is also concern about the potential impact of these developments
on the city's UNESCO World Heritage City candidacy, as demolishing historical sites could
drastically transform its heritage landscape. The responsibility to take a decision about the
project's future has been assigned to you by the Government.
(a) Mention the ethical issues involved in the scenario.
(b) Evaluate the options available to you. What decision will you take about the future of the
project? (Answer in 250 words) 20
Approach:
• In Introduction, highlight the key dilemma of the case.
• Mention the various ethical issues involved in the given scenario.
• Mention the various available options and evaluate them accordingly.
• Outline the decision taken and the rationale behind it.
• Conclude briefly.
Answer:
The above case centres on balancing the need for modern infrastructure against the preservation of
the city's historical monuments and buildings.

Local
Residents

Urban Cultural
Development Heritage of
Authorities
city

Stakeholders

Government Tourists

Shopkeepers and
Business Owners

(a) The various ethical issues involved in the case:

• Preservation of the city’s unique identity: The demolition of historic and cultural buildings
raises questions about the preservation of cultural and historical heritage against
developmental needs.
• Community rights and livelihood: It raises concerns related to social justice and the well-
being of the community as the impact of displacement on residents remains to be fairly
evaluated.
• Global heritage responsibility: It is the government’s responsibility to maintain the cultural
heritage of the city and protect candidacy for UNESCO World Heritage City designation.
• Inclusive and equitable decision: The unrest among local citizens, as well as cultural
groups, presents the need for democratic decision-making because people are as much part
of the culture of a city as the monuments.

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 (b) The various available options with their merits and demerits are as follows:
Option 1: Going ahead with the project as planned
• Merits:
o Tourist satisfaction: It ensures a better experience for tourists, which will lead to
gaining reputation as a good tourist destination.
o Progress and economic prosperity: Enhanced economic opportunities would
potentially alleviate the economic concerns of the inhabitants.
• Demerits:
o Neglecting heritage value: It disregards the intrinsic value of cultural and historical
heritage and risks the city’s candidature of getting the World Heritage tag.
o Injustice to locals: It might lead to unfair treatment of residents and shopkeepers, not
respecting their rights and needs.
Option 2: Halting the project
• Merits:
o Ensuring cultural integrity: It gives due respect to the historical legacy and cultural
authenticity of the city.
o Respect community sentiments and interests: It prioritizes the voices and concerns
of the local community, especially those most affected and prone to displacement.
• Demerits:
o Forgoing societal advancement: This approach might be seen as overlooking
opportunities for societal progress, and economic development.
o Poor tourist experience: The lack of facilities could lead to a bad experience for tourists,
harming the city's reputation.
Option 3: Modifying the Project with comprehensive stakeholder engagement and seeking
expert opinion from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
• Merits:
o Harmonizing interests: It attempts to find a balance between development and
preservation while being mindful of the right to just and fair treatment of the locals.
o Inclusivity and participation: It demonstrates a commitment to involving a wide range
of stakeholders in decision-making.
• Demerits:
o Complex decision-making: It might result in prolonged processes due to aligning the
interests of all stakeholders.
o Increased costs and planning challenges: Seeking expert opinion by ASI may lead to
higher expenses in exploring alternatives and planning complexities.
As the person responsible for deciding the future of the project, I will choose Option 3. This option
ensures that the city’s essential heritage is preserved while also facilitating economic development.
It prioritizes the restoration and integration of historic buildings into the development plan
and ensures that the development is inclusive and caters to all sections of society.
The decision-making process should prioritize a balanced and inclusive approach that respects the
city's cultural heritage, addresses the concerns of local communities, and aligns with international
conservation standards.

11. You are the CEO of a reputed private company. Recently, your company got entangled in an
unwanted situation. A video is purportedly circulating on social media that shows a man hitting
a woman incessantly. The video has gained traction, drawing the attention of media channels
and sparking debates on TV news channels regarding the behaviour of the person in the video.
Some social media users have alleged that the person in the video is one of your employees. Your
company's handle has been tagged in social media discussions on the subject, significantly
impacting its reputation. There is immense pressure on the company to immediately sack the
employee.

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 The investors of the company are pressurising you to look into the termination of the employee
immediately. Their concern is that the company's reputation can be tarnished as the case
unfolds. Despite this situation, you are cautious in taking action considering the long-term
association of the employee with the company as well as his past performance. You also know
that the employee is under severe mental distress due to ongoing media scrutiny and suspending
his services by the company would jeopardize his financial stability, career prospects and
reputation.
Moreover, taking action against this employee without concrete evidence could be perceived as
prejudiced or unjust on your part. Conversely, failure to respond decisively may imply condoning
or overlooking unacceptable behavior, potentially undermining the company's commitment to
ethical conduct and social responsibility.
(a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case.
(b) What are the options available to you in this case?
(c) Which option would you choose and why? (Answer in 250 words) 20
Approach:
• Briefly summarize the case study in the introduction.
• Elaborate on various ethical issues involved in this.
• Evaluate the options available and
• Conclude by mentioning the preferred option.
Answer:
This case involves an employee who has been accused of violence against women. Though, the
identity of the accused has not yet been ascertained, the employer is under pressure to take action
due to media scrutiny.
(a) Ethical issues involved in the case
• Presumption of Innocence: Presumption of innocence mandates that a person is innocent
until proven guilty. Therefore, rushing to judgement without concrete evidence would be
against this principle.
• Rule of fair hearing and due process: The rule of fair hearing is a fundamental principle
of natural justice and due process. The person in question should be given an opportunity to
present his side to the concerned persons/authorities.
• Social Responsibility: In addition to the reputation of the company, its perceived
commitment to ethical standards and conduct is at stake. Any decision taken in haste might
potentially create negative perception about the company among its stakeholders, including
prospective employees.
• Media Ethics: Journalistic ethics require responsible reporting that upholds the truth,
accuracy, fairness, and impartiality. Any speculative reporting without establishing facts
of the case would be tantamount to media trial and irresponsible journalism.
• Employee welfare: Any action of the company should not unduly compromise mental,
psychological and financial state of the employee.
(b) In the given case, the following options can be explored:
Option 01: Terminate the employee with immediate effect.
• Pros:
o It will help the CEO salvage the image of the company and address the concerns of the
investors.
o It will also send a message to other employee that their conduct in private life may have
professional repercussions.
o It will also provide reassurance to the female employees in the company that the
management is sensitive to the issues pertaining to gender violence.
• Cons:
o Terminating an employee whose guilt has not been established would not be fair and
justified.
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 Option 02: Suspend the employee temporarily and order an internal enquiry.
• Pros:
o Temporary suspension would help placate all the stakeholders who were pressurizing
the CEO to take action.
o It will also provide the employee the opportunity to present his case.
o An internal enquiry will also ascertain the behavior of the employee at the workplace,
especially with the female colleague.
• Cons:
o An internal enquiry may become futile, if the case gets registered with the police or other
authorities.
o Ordering an enquiry merely on the basis of a social media post may set panic among
other employees. Especially, when deep fakes are increasingly being circulated on the
social media nowadays.
Option 03: Register the case with concerned authorities and request the employee to opt for work
from home (WFH) till his names gets cleared.
• Pros:
o An impartial investigation by the police will help clear the doubts regarding the identity
of the culprit. If found guilty, the employee must be terminated.
o In the meanwhile, WFH option will help the employee to continue earning his livelihood
without being exposed to public scrutiny at work.
o He should also be offered support and counselling in order to deal with mental and
emotional ordeal.
• Cons:
o A police investigation may take time. Also, the case can go to the judiciary which will
further delay any suitable action.
(c) Given the circumstances, the most prudent option would be to choose option 03. This action
showcases the company's inclination towards upholding the principles of natural justice without
getting pressurized by social media uproar.

12. You are posted as a District Collector in one of the districts of Himachal Pradesh. The district
comes under Seismic Zone V and is susceptible to landslides during monsoon season. The state
has already recorded 35 major landslides since the onset of monsoon this year, which is twice as
compared to the previous year. Recently, you got an advisory from the State Disaster
Management Authority regarding prediction of heavy rainfall in some areas of your district. You
have been categorically told to evacuate local people from unsafe houses that have developed
cracks and are vulnerable to sinking. However, you face stiff resistance from local residents who
are apprehensive to leave their houses fearing damage to their properties in their absence. The
local opposition leader is also putting pressure on the district administration citing its failure in
controlling unplanned and haphazard construction in this sensitive area. Moreover, you find
that there have been many unplanned construction of hotels and resorts in these areas flouting
the Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning Act, 1977. This is despite several warnings
by environmental experts and the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority.
(a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case.
(b) Mention the course of action that you will take in above case. (Answer in 250 words) 20
Approach:
• Briefly describe the case in the introduction.
• Highlight the ethical issues involved in the given case.
• Suggest appropriate course of action take you will adopt as the District Commissioner.
• Conclude accordingly.

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Answer:
The above case study reflects the dichotomy between balancing the need for immediate evacuation
to ensure public safety while respecting the individual property rights of residents who are
reluctant to leave their homes. It also deals with the issue of development versus environmental
protection.
(a) Ethical issues involved in the case:
• Public safety: Being the District Commissioner, I have an ethical obligation to prioritize
public safety, as the urgency of the situation demands swift and decisive action to prevent
potential harm to the life of locals.
• Right to property: Local residents have individual property rights. They have the right to
reside in their property and cannot be evacuated forcefully.
• Undermining of ethical governance: The ethical concern extends to the accountability of
the government in approving projects that go against expert advice and violating town
planning regulations. This reflects a failure in governance and raises questions about the
government's commitment to protecting the welfare of its citizens.
• Environmental concerns: The unethical approval of projects in environmentally sensitive
zones disregards the long-term impact on the environment.
• Undermining corporate accountability: The construction of hotels and resorts in violation
of the Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning Act, 1977 demonstrates lack of
corporate accountability. Companies involved in these projects may be prioritizing profits
over the safety of residents and environmental concerns.
• Political pressure: The pressure from the local opposition leader could lead to political
interference in decision-making when it comes to public safety.
(b) As the District Commissioner, I have a legal obligation to uphold public safety and the moral
responsibility to protect the well-being of the community in the face of imminent landslide threats
during the monsoon season. I would take the following course of action to uphold my
obligations:
• Persuasion: I will try to convince the people to evacuate by explaining the gravity of the
situation and its consequences, not only for them but also for their children. Further, I will
also inform them about the evacuation plan and the resources that are available to them.
• Emergency backup: I will prioritize the safety of residents by immediately evacuating
those in unsafe houses identified by the advisory. Further, I will establish temporary
shelters equipped with necessary amenities to accommodate the evacuated residents.
• Engage local leaders: I will engage in a dialogue with the local political leaders and try
to convince them by sharing relevant information about the risks posed by unsafe
construction and the necessity of evacuation. Also, I will communicate the steps being taken
to rectify the situation.
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): A thorough EIA in collaboration with experts
will be conducted to evaluate the damage caused by unplanned construction. Further, a
compensation fund would be set up to provide financial support to those who may face
property damage or loss due to the evacuation measures.
• Independent enquiry: An Independent Enquiry Committee would be constituted to
scrutinize the violations of law and planning regulations. Based on the Enquiry Committee
report, strict legal action will be taken against those within the government as well as
outside responsible for unauthorized construction, thereby ensuring accountability.
• Awareness campaigns: Public awareness campaigns will be conducted to educate the
public about the importance of adhering to building regulations for the safety and the
well-being of the community.
By taking the above course of action, I will try to uphold ethical governance and public welfare as well
as ensure environmental sustainability of the region.

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