Ethical Reasoning — Prelims Questions

A District Collector is faced with a situation where a major infrastructure project, crucial for regional economic development, requires the displacement of a tribal community. The legal compensation offered is minimal, and rehabilitation options are inadequate. Local activists are protesting, citing violation of tribal rights and environmental damage. Which of the following ethical frameworks would be LEAST appropriate for the Collector to primarily rely upon in this immediate situation?

A senior government official is offered a lavish gift by a private company seeking a lucrative contract. Accepting the gift would not directly violate any specific rule, as the value is just below the official threshold for mandatory declaration, but it creates a perception of undue influence. What is the most ethically sound course of action for the official?

A Block Development Officer (BDO) discovers that a government welfare scheme meant for marginalized farmers is being siphoned off by a nexus of local politicians and contractors. Reporting this would put the BDO's career and personal safety at risk. Not reporting would allow the corruption to continue, harming the beneficiaries. Which of the following best describes the ethical dilemma faced by the BDO?

Which of the following constitutional provisions most directly reinforces the ethical principle of 'impartiality' for public administration in India?

A civil servant is tasked with implementing a new policy that, while beneficial for the majority, will cause significant disruption and hardship for a small, economically vulnerable community. The policy is legally sound. Applying the 'Gandhian principle of Antyodaya' would primarily suggest which of the following approaches?