Day 1 – Q.2. “Ethical actions may sometimes lead to short-term losses but ensure long-term gains for society.” Analyze this statement with respect to the consequences of adhering to ethical values in public administration.

Q.2. “Ethical actions may sometimes lead to short-term losses but ensure long-term gains for society.” Analyze this statement with respect to the consequences of adhering to ethical values in public administration. (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction

Ethical decisions in public administration may sometimes cause short-term difficulties like delays or opposition. However, these decisions are essential for building trust, fairness, and strong institutions that benefit society in the long run.

Body

Consequences: Short-term challenges and long-term benefits of ethical actions.

“In the long run, the most uncomfortable truth is better than the most comforting lie.” — Thomas Friedman

1. Upholding Integrity : Ethical resistance can invite backlash but boosts long term faith.
   Example: Sanjiv Chaturvedi faced harassment but exposed corruption.
2. Honest Auditing and Accountability : Initial friction can lead to systemic improvement.
   Example: Vinod Rai’s audits triggered financial reforms.
3. Rejecting Populism : Ethical stand may lose votes but secures policy integrity.
   Example: EC’s strict Code of Conduct preserved electoral fairness.
4. Transparent Welfare Delivery : Initial delays can prevent future leakages.
   Example: Aadhaar-enabled DBT reduced corruption in welfare.
5. Fair Law Enforcement : Resistance is short-lived; justice has lasting effect.
   Example: Julio Ribeiro’s policing reduced insurgency in Punjab.
6. Protecting Public Resources : Sacrificing comfort can save national assets.
   Example: Durga Shakti Nagpal acted against illegal mining.
7. Resisting Nepotism : Merit hurts vested interests but builds institutional credibility.
   Example: UPSC ensures fairness in recruitment.
8. Ethical Leadership : Long-term culture of accountability grows from ethical examples.
   Example: T.S.R. Subramanian reformed civil service ethos.

Conclusion

Short-term losses caused by ethical action often become the foundation for long-term public trust—cornerstone of a just administrative system. As Martin Luther King Jr. famously said, “The time is always right to do what is right.”