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More on GS4 · Case Studies
Case Study As a Superintendent of Police in a district in Uttar Pradesh, you are facing a challenging situation following the recent killing of a gangster-turned-politician, which took place in police custody. The gangster belonged to a minority community. Situation took a communal colour as the incident was caught live on camera, and the footage has been widely shared on social media, triggering protests by the supporters of the deceased. Assailants were arrested immediately after the attack. There is also a possibility of looming communal riots in the district. This has led to immense political pressure on the police department to solve the case quickly and bring the culprits to justice. Additionally, there are questions being raised about the security measures taken by the officers deployed to protect the gangster, leading to a lapse in security. As a police officer, what are your duties and responsibilities in handling the political pressure, conducting an impartial investigation, ensuring that justice is served, and addressing the issues related to the security lapse?
Case Study Sneha Verma, a young and upright IAS officer, is serving as CEO of the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) in a drought-prone district of Maharashtra. She is overseeing the implementation of a crucial Rs 50 crore water conservation project under the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, aimed at preventing crop failure and mass migration. While finalizing tenders, the lowest bidder—XYZ Pvt. Ltd.—emerges with strong credentials. However, Sneha is informally warned by colleagues about the firm’s alleged involvement in substandard work and bribery in another state, despite no formal conviction or blacklist status. The situation escalates when a local MLA visits Sneha, subtly pressuring her to award the contract to Saraswati Infra, citing urgency and hinting at consequences for her upcoming transfer. The next morning, she receives an anonymous email with alleged proof of the firm’s manipulated quality reports in previous projects. With villagers anxiously awaiting project execution before the monsoon, Sneha is torn between ensuring integrity and avoiding delays that could harm livelihoods and invite political backlash. Questions (a) Identify and discuss the ethical issues involved in the case. (b) What are the options available to Sneha? Evaluate each of them. What would be the most appropriate course of action for Sneha? (c) In the long run, how should public institutions ensure ethical integrity and transparency in public procurement while balancing the urgency of developmental needs?