General Studies Paper 4
Subash is Secretary, PWD in the State Government. He is a senior officer, known for his competence, integrity and dedication to work. He enjoys the trust and confidence of Minister Incharge of PWD and Programme Implementation. As a part of his job profile, he is responsible for policy formulation, execution of projects relating to infrastructure initiatives in the State. Besides, he oversees the technical and administrative aspects relating to planning, designing and construction etc. Subash's Minister is an important Minister in the state and significant growth in urban infrastructure development and road network has been registered during his tenure. He is very keen for launching of ambitious road construction project in the near future. Subash is in regular touch with the Minister and is working various modalities of road construction project. Regular meetings, interactions and presentations are made by him to the Minister before a formal public announcement of the project is made by the Minister. Subash's only son Vikas is in real estate business. His son from his own sources is aware that a mega road project is on the anvil and announcement in this regard is expected anytime. He is very keen to know from his father the exact location of the upcoming project. He knows that there would be quantum jump in the prices of land in the vicinity. Buying land at this stage at cheaper prices would pay him rich dividends. He is pleading with him (his father) day in and day out to share him location of the proposed project. He assured him that he would handle the matter discretely as it would not attract any adverse notice as he in the normal course, keeps on buying land as a part of his business. He feels pressurised because of constant pleadings by his son. Another significant aspect of the matter pertained to the extra/undue interest in the above project by the Minister PWD. His nephew was also having big infrastructure project company. In fact, the Minister has also introduced his nephew to him and indicated to him to take care of his nephew's business interest in the forthcoming project. The Minister encouraged him to act fast in the matter as early announcement and execution of mega road project would enhance his status in the party and public life. In the above backdrop, Subash is in a fix as to the future course of action. (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case. (b) Critically examine the options available to Subash in the above situation. (c) Which of the above would be most appropriate and why?(Answer in 250 words)
case study - Probity in governance: concept of public service, transparency and accountability.
2025
10
Marks
Introduction
The case highlights ethical dilemmas involving conflict of interest, misuse of confidential information, political pressure, and integrity in public administration. As Secretary of the Public Works Department, Subash holds a position of trust and is expected to uphold values of integrity, objectivity, accountability, and impartiality in line with principles of ethical governance.
(a) Ethical Issues Involved
Conflict of Interest: His son’s business interest in land near the proposed road project may influence his official decisions.
Misuse of Confidential Information: Sharing project location details would amount to insider information and unethical advantage.
Political Pressure and Nepotism: The Minister’s suggestion to favour his nephew’s company compromises fairness in public procurement.
Integrity vs Familial Loyalty: Emotional pressure from family conflicts with professional duty.
Violation of Public Trust: Any favouritism would undermine transparency and public confidence in governance.
(b) Options Available to Subash
Share confidential information with his son: Provides personal benefit but clearly unethical and illegal.
Favour the Minister’s nephew in awarding contracts: May please political authority but violates principles of fairness and rule of law.
Refuse both requests and maintain confidentiality: Upholds integrity and administrative ethics but may lead to personal and political pressure.
Ensure transparent procedures: Conduct open competitive bidding and document all decisions to prevent bias.
(c) Most Appropriate Course of Action
The most ethical option is to refuse sharing confidential information with his son and resist political pressure while ensuring transparent, rule-based procurement. This approach aligns with Nolan principles such as Integrity, Objectivity, and Accountability. Ethical public servants like :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} demonstrated how
firm adherence to rules can strengthen institutional credibility despite external pressures.
Conclusion
By prioritizing public interest over personal or political gain, Subash can uphold ethical governance.
Integrity and transparency in decision-making are essential for sustaining public trust and ensuring
fair development outcomes.
