Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 1. “While laws regulate conduct, a code of ethics elevates it.” Discuss the role of a code of ethics in shaping public servant behavior beyond legal obligations. How can ethical conduct be effectively inculcated in public service? (150 words, 10 marks)
Introduction
Laws establish minimum conduct standards through enforcement, while ethics inspire excellence beyond compliance, elevating public service from mere rule-following to principled governance.
Body
How Code of Ethics Elevates Public Service Beyond Legal Regulation
Ethical codes serve as moral compasses, filling regulatory gaps and cultivating a culture of principled governance that extends far beyond legal compliance.
- Bridging Legal Gaps: Ethics provide direction where laws are ambiguous or absent. Example: IAS officer Sushil Kumar personally coordinated rescue operations during 2013 Uttarakhand floods despite no legal mandate.
- Building Institutional Credibility: Ethical conduct strengthens public confidence in governance. Example: Kerala Chief Secretary Tom Jose voluntarily disclosed assets online, going beyond RTI requirements.
- Cultivating Internal Motivation: Ethics inspire action based on conviction rather than coercion. Example: IAS officer Aruna Sundararajan refused plush government bungalow, choosing modest accommodation.
- Ensuring Equitable Service: Ethical principles prevent favoritism and promote uniform treatment. Example: DM Kalpana Awasthi refused VIP movement during board examinations despite political pressure.
- Creating Exemplary Leadership: Ethical leaders model behavior that transforms organizational culture. Example: E. Sreedharan’s Delhi Metro maintained zero-tolerance for corruption, setting new infrastructure standards.
Measures to Inculcate Ethical Conduct
Sustainable ethical behavior requires systemic reinforcement through training, oversight, and cultural transformation.
- Comprehensive Ethics Education: LBSNAA includes ethics modules with Indian case studies while state academies conduct regular ethics workshops as recommended by the 2nd ARC.
- Ethics Advisory Mechanisms: Establishing independent ethics boards and ombudsman offices provide guidance while Maharashtra’s Lokayukta and CVC’s integrity pacts demonstrate institutional commitment.
- Transparency and Disclosure Systems: Following 2nd ARC recommendations, initiatives like Rajasthan’s ‘Jan Soochna Portal’ and Delhi’s real-time MLA disclosure go beyond legal requirements.
- Recognition and Incentive Structures: PM Awards for Excellence include ethical leadership criteria while Odisha incorporates citizen feedback in appraisals.
- International Best Practices: Singapore’s mandatory ethics courses for civil servants and New Zealand’s Public Service Ethics Office model provide frameworks for continuous ethical development and consultation.
Conclusion
Ethics transform public service from duty-bound compliance to purpose-driven excellence, creating trustworthy institutions where citizens receive not just lawful, but exemplary governance.
“Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right to do.” – Potter Stewart
