Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q.4. “Recent incidents like the Manipur conflict highlight how Emotional Intelligence (EI)—or the lack of it—can shape the outcome of crisis resolution in governance.” Analyse the role of EI in managing such crises, with suitable examples. (150 words, 10 Marks)
Introduction
Conflict of Interest (COI) arises when personal interest could improperly influence a public servant’s professional duties. In governance, handling such situations ethically is crucial to protect public trust and institutional integrity.
Body
Common Situations of Conflict of Interest
- Awarding contracts to known parties: A civil servant involved in bidding may favor firms owned by friends or family. Example: Allegations in BMC contract allocations involved officials related to bidders.
- Regulatory roles vs. previous affiliations: A retired bureaucrat appointed to regulate a sector they once worked in. Example: Concerns raised over ex-officials joining private consultancies related to their past departments.
- Dual roles or assets: Holding stakes in companies while making related policy decisions. Example: SEBI’s crackdown on insider trading involves such cases in regulatory circles.
Influence on Decision-Making
- Biased Judgement: Personal stakes may distort objectivity in decisions. Example: Political patronage in bureaucratic transfers, seen in several state administrations.
- Policy Misuse: Framing rules that benefit connected individuals or entities. Example: Real estate policy changes allegedly benefiting builders with bureaucratic links.
- Public Distrust: Even perceived COI weakens citizens’ trust in institutions. Example: Judicial recusals in high-profile cases to avoid perception of bias.
- Delayed or Skewed Implementation: Fear of exposure may lead to inaction or biased execution. Example: Delay in action during the NEET paper leak scandal raised COI suspicions.
Handling Conflict of Interest
- Mandatory Disclosure: Declare personal and financial interests proactively. Example: IAS officers’ asset declarations made public on government portals.
- Recusal from Decision-Making: Step back from decisions where bias is possible. Example: RBI officials recusing from decisions on banks they were previously associated with.
- Institutional Safeguards: Enforce clear ethics codes and independent oversight. Example: Lokpal and Lokayuktas help investigate cases involving ethical lapses.
- Ethical Training and Vigilance: Regular sensitisation helps identify and manage COI. Example: Civil service foundation courses include ethics modules post-Second ARC recommendations.
Conclusion
Addressing conflict of interest is not just about legality but ethical responsibility. Upholding transparency, fairness, and neutrality ensures public servants serve the people, not personal agendas—safeguarding the foundation of just governance.
