Case Study You are posted as the District Magistrate in a rural district of India with a significant population belonging to various caste groups. Despite legal provisions and affirmative action policies, instances of caste discrimination are prevalent in the district. Recently, a group of Dalit students from a government school in a predominantly upper-caste village have approached you, complaining of discrimination and harassment by their upper-caste classmates and teachers. The students allege that they are often made to sit separately, are not allowed to use the common water source and face verbal abuse from their peers and teachers. They also claim that their grades are intentionally marked lower than those of their upper-caste counterparts. Upon investigation, you find that the allegations are substantiated, and there is a deep-seated bias against the Dalit students in the school. The school management, dominated by upper-caste members, is reluctant to address the issue, citing "tradition" and "social norms." As the District Magistrate, how would you approach this situation ethically and effectively to address the caste discrimination in the school? What steps would you take to ensure justice for the Dalit students and promote a more inclusive and equitable environment in the school?

Case Study Mr. Vivek Deshmukh is the District Magistrate of a mineral-rich district where the State Government has approved a large infrastructure project, a multi-purpose industrial corridor expected to generate employment, boost regional development, and attract investment. The project requires acquisition of a large tract of land, a significant portion of which belongs to small and marginal farmers, as well as forest land traditionally used by tribal communities for livelihood and cultural practices. The government has offered compensation as per legal provisions, along with promises of rehabilitation, employment opportunities, and skill development. While some landowners are willing to accept compensation, a substantial section of tribal communities and farmers are resisting the acquisition. They argue that the compensation does not reflect the long-term value of their land and that monetary payments cannot substitute their cultural and livelihood ties to the land. Civil society groups have joined the protest, raising concerns about displacement, environmental degradation, and violation of tribal rights. At the same time, the State Government is keen to fast-track the project, viewing it as a flagship initiative with potential political and economic benefits. Senior officials informally advise Mr. Deshmukh to “ensure smooth acquisition” and avoid delays. There are also reports that some local intermediaries are trying to manipulate consent records and pressure villagers into signing agreements. Meanwhile, the region suffers from chronic underdevelopment, lack of employment, poor infrastructure, and migration, which the project aims to address. Delaying or cancelling the project could deprive the region of much-needed economic opportunities. Mr. Deshmukh must decide how to proceed with land acquisition while balancing development goals, rights of affected communities, and ethical governance. Questions 1. What are the ethical issues involved in this case? 2. What options are available to Mr. Deshmukh? Evaluate the merits and demerits of each. 3. What should be the most ethical course of action for Mr. Deshmukh? Justify your answer in terms of justice, equity, and sustainable development.

Case Study Ms. Riya Malhotra is serving as a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in a backward, drought-prone block where a large section of the population depends on government welfare schemes such as the Public Distribution System (PDS), pensions, and employment under MGNREGA. During a routine inspection, Ms. Malhotra discovers serious irregularities in the local PDS system. Several fair price shop dealers have been diverting subsidised food grains to the open market with the alleged connivance of lower-level revenue and supply officials. Digital records show compliance, but ground verification and beneficiary testimonies indicate widespread exclusion of genuine households. If strict action is taken immediately, such as suspension of dealers and officials, there is a risk of disruption in food supply for thousands of vulnerable families in the short term. Moreover, some of the accused officials are known to be politically well-connected, and informal messages reach Ms. Malhotra advising her to “handle the matter sensitively” to avoid controversy. At the same time, civil society organisations and local media have begun highlighting the issue, questioning the administration’s commitment to transparency and justice. With the lean agricultural season approaching, any prolonged disruption in welfare delivery could worsen hunger and distress. Ms. Malhotra must decide how to act in a manner that ensures justice, protects the vulnerable, and upholds administrative integrity. Questions 1. What are the ethical issues involved in this case? 2. What options are available to Ms. Malhotra? Examine the merits and demerits of each. 3. What course of action should Ms. Malhotra adopt? Justify your answer in terms of ethical values, public interest, and administrative responsibility.

Case Study You are the Superintendent of Police in a city that has been experiencing rising incidents of online harassment targeting women. A recent case has attracted significant public and media attention: a young woman has committed suicide after being repeatedly harassed and blackmailed online. An investigation revealed that the harassment was carried out by a group of influential individuals, including the son of a prominent politician. When you initiate action against the accused, you receive immense political pressure to slow down or drop the investigation. A senior politician contacts you directly, reminding you of your career prospects and how this case could harm your professional growth if you refuse to cooperate. At the same time, the victim's family is seeking justice, and activists have begun to protest in large numbers, demanding accountability. The media is closely watching the developments, and public sentiment is strongly in favor of justice. However, the pressure from influential circles is mounting, and you risk being transferred or sidelined if you pursue the investigation aggressively. Questions: 1. What are the ethical dilemmas involved in this case? 2. As the Superintendent of Police, what course of action would you take, and why? 3. Discuss the importance of integrity and accountability in public service, using this case as a reference.

Case Study A textile dyeing unit was set up seven years ago near a growing semi-urban area, approved by the state government to boost local employment and industrial growth. While it provided jobs to thousands and contributed to the local economy, the unit discharged untreated effluents into a nearby river, leading to severe water pollution. This has caused skin and respiratory diseases among residents, contaminated the groundwater, and damaged agricultural productivity in surrounding villages. Despite repeated complaints, no action was taken until the situation worsened, triggering widespread protests by farmers, environmental groups, and affected citizens. The protests have disrupted public order, forcing the government to consider shutting down the unit. However, closing the factory would result in mass unemployment for workers and affect businesses dependent on the dyes it produces. Additionally, ancillary industries and transporters linked to the unit would also face economic losses. As the District Magistrate, you are tasked with resolving the crisis and ensuring sustainable solutions to protect public health, restore environmental safety, and address economic concerns. Questions: 1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation? 2. What are the ethical, social, and administrative challenges involved in this situation? 3. Suggest immediate and long-term measures to resolve the crisis while balancing the needs of the environment, public health, and the economy.

You are the Managing Director of Metro Rail Corporation (MRC) of a metropolitan city and you have received orders and funding for construction of the metro track and a parking space in a densely forested area of the city with houses of few underprivileged families as well in it. For the construction, the forest has to be cleared and the families have to be moved to some other place. The locals have started a protest after knowing about the order. They are highly raged about cutting down thousands of trees and the affected families have also joined them because the forest holds emotional value for them. On the other hand, the minister who directly controls the MRC is pressuring you to start the felling process as soon as possible. You know that going against his orders will have serious repercussions. (a) What are the ethical issues involved and the options available to you in such a situation? (b) Also, suggest a course of action you would like to follow.