Code of Conduct and Discipline | Public Administration Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Introduction

A code of conduct serves as a guiding framework, consisting of rules and regulations, that outlines the standards, responsibilities, and proper practices for individuals, parties, or organizations. When it comes to civil servants, a code of conduct becomes particularly crucial as it defines the principles that the government expects from its employees. This article delves into the significance of a code of conduct for civil servants, explores notable committees on the subject in India, highlights key recommendations, and discusses the rules that govern the conduct of civil servants in the country.

Importance of Code of Conduct for Civil Servants

• Ensuring a Consistent Approach to Responsibilities and Decision Making: By adhering to a code of conduct, civil servants are able to maintain a consistent approach in discharging their duties and making decisions. This consistency is vital for upholding transparency and fairness within the democratic system.
• Acknowledging Special Obligations: Civil servants bear a special responsibility as they are entrusted with managing resources on behalf of the community. A code of conduct helps them understand and fulfill these obligations in an accountable and ethical manner.
• Enhancing the Efficiency of the Democratic System: When civil servants work in accordance with the guidelines provided by a code of conduct, it contributes to the overall efficiency of the democratic system. By upholding integrity, impartiality, and dedication to public service, civil servants play a crucial role in promoting a transparent and effective governance structure.

Committees on Code of Conduct for Civil Servants in India

• Committee on Prevention of Corruption (Santhanam Committee), 1964: The Santhanam Committee, established in 1964, recommended a set of Conduct Rules for civil servants. Key features of the recommendations included the need for uniformity in Conduct Rules, emphasizing the importance of instilling values like altruism and empathy from an early age through institutions such as family and school.
• Hota Committee Report, 2004: In 2004, the Hota Committee proposed the establishment of a Code of Ethics for civil servants. This code aimed to instill values of integrity, merit, and excellence in public service, promoting ethical conduct among civil servants.
• Second Administrative Reforms Commission: The Second Administrative Reforms Commission's 10th report focused on Values & Ethics of Civil Services in India. It recommended drafting a Bill on ethics to provide a statutory basis for a code of ethics, referred to as "The Civil Services Bill." The commission outlined several values civil servants should uphold, including integrity, impartiality, objectivity, dedication to public service, and empathy towards the weaker sections of society.

Principles of Public Life and Code of Ethics for Civil Servants

Drawing inspiration from the Nolan Committee's seven principles of public life in the UK, the Second Administrative Reforms Commission proposed the inclusion of similar principles in the Code of Ethics for civil servants in India. These principles encompass:

• Integrity: Civil servants should make official decisions solely based on public interest, without being influenced by financial or personal considerations.
• Impartiality: Civil servants should base their actions and decisions on merit alone, ensuring fairness in processes like procurement, recruitment, and service delivery.
• Commitment to public service: Civil servants should deliver services in a fair, effective, impartial, and courteous manner, prioritizing the welfare of the public.
• Open accountability: Civil servants are accountable for their decisions and actions, and they should willingly subject themselves to appropriate scrutiny.
• Devotion to duty: Civil servants must demonstrate unwavering dedication to their duties and responsibilities at all times.
• Exemplary behavior: Civil servants should treat all members of the public with respect and courtesy, upholding the esteemed traditions of the civil services.

Rules for Code of Conduct for Civil Servants in India

The United Nations has formulated a "Code of Conduct" for public officials, emphasizing integrity, honesty, and responsibility. In India, the current ethical norms for civil servants are governed by the Conduct Rules.

Conclusion

A robust code of conduct for civil servants is essential for upholding integrity, ensuring accountability, and promoting excellence in public service. The committees on the code of conduct in India have made valuable recommendations, emphasizing values such as integrity, merit, and dedication to public service. By adhering to these principles and rules, civil servants play a pivotal role in building a transparent and efficient democratic system that benefits society as a whole.