Ethics: February 2025 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

Q1. You are the zonal head of an important urban area in northern India. Being the administrative head you have the duty to implement all the directives given by your superiors and the court of law. The area under your jurisdiction has seen huge growth of illegal slums in recent times. These slums are providing low paid workers as well as cheap vendors of essential commodities like vegetables and eggs to the middle class urban households. But slums deface the beauty of the cities and spread lots of dirt and squalor in the vicinity. They are also breeding ground and hideouts for criminals. A PIL was filed against these unauthorized slums and the court has ordered for the destruction of all illegal encroachments on public land. However, its winter season in the area and it’s also raining for quite some time. A strong case is also made by the government authorities to remove these slums and their dwellers by force, even when the situation is not congenial. You are the enforcing officer. The following are some suggested options. Please evaluate the merits and demerits of each of the options: 
(a) You would vacate the slum by using police force without any consideration for the inclement weather and contribution which the slum dweller makes. 
(b) You will request your senior officer to wait till the weather becomes normal and an alternative place for settlement of the slum dwellers is designated with basic amenities. 
(c) You will suggest your senior officers to make it compulsory for all the apartment builders to have provision of very low cost shelters for such shanty but important workers along with every apartment and allot it with the help of administration to identified workers based on some objective criteria. Also please indicate (without necessarily restricting to the above options) what you would like to do, giving proper reasons. (300 words, 25 marks)
Ans: 
(a) Using police force for immediate eviction:
Merits:

• Ensures prompt implementation of the court order.
• Removes illegal encroachments, restoring the city's aesthetic appeal and public land use.
• Addresses potential law and order issues arising from criminal activities in slums.

Demerits:

• Humanitarian crisis due to displacement in severe weather conditions.
• May lead to public outrage, negative media coverage, and legal challenges.
• Disrupts the economic ecosystem that depends on the labor and services provided by slum dwellers.
• Risks increase in crime rates due to desperation among the displaced population.

(b) Requesting delay in eviction until alternative arrangements are made:
Merits:

• Provides humane treatment to the vulnerable population, ensuring they are not left homeless in adverse weather.
• Helps in systematic rehabilitation, reducing long-term social problems.
• Upholds a balanced approach, ensuring legal compliance while respecting human rights.

Demerits:

• Delays implementation of the court order, possibly leading to contempt proceedings.
• Risks further expansion of illegal settlements if not strictly monitored.
• May create a precedent for encroachers to resist eviction by citing humanitarian concerns.

(c) Mandating low-cost shelters in apartment projects:
Merits:

• Provides a sustainable and long-term solution to urban housing issues.
• Ensures slum dwellers are integrated into the formal housing sector, reducing future illegal encroachments.
• Promotes inclusivity and social equity in urban planning.
• Aligns with global best practices of affordable housing solutions.

Demerits:

• May face resistance from builders and apartment buyers due to additional costs.
• Requires significant administrative oversight and policy changes, delaying implementation.
• Objective criteria for allotment may lead to disputes and favoritism.

My Suggested Course of Action:While immediate eviction using force is legally justifiable, it lacks a humane approach. On the other hand, delaying action indefinitely might weaken the rule of law. Therefore, a balanced strategy should be adopted:

• Seek a temporary stay on eviction by highlighting humanitarian concerns in court while ensuring commitment to implementation.
• Establish a temporary shelter with basic amenities in coordination with NGOs and local authorities to prevent mass displacement.
• Prepare a long-term rehabilitation plan that includes mandatory low-cost housing provisions in urban development projects.
• Conduct awareness campaigns to inform slum dwellers about alternative housing schemes and employment opportunities.
• Strictly enforce future land use regulations to prevent further illegal encroachments.

By integrating legality with humanitarian concerns, this approach ensures both compliance and social justice.

Q2: You are posted as a senior bureaucrat in one of the union territories of India. The government of the union territory and the lieutenant governor has been locked in a bitter confrontation over the appointment and transfer of senior bureaucrats. The post of joint secretary of Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has been vacant for some time and needs to be filled urgently. You have been appointed by the government and one of your batch mates has been appointed on the same post by the LG under the directions of Central Home Ministry. Both of you have been ordered to take the charge and start working as the joint secretary of ACB which is the initiative of the union territory government. Analyze the situation from different perspectives and explain the implications of such a standoff? What steps you can take on your side to resolve this situation? (250 words, 20 marks)
Ans: 
Analysis of the Situation:
The standoff over the appointment of the Joint Secretary of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) highlights a critical governance issue arising from the conflict between the elected government of the Union Territory (UT) and the Lieutenant Governor (LG), who acts as the representative of the Central Government. 
This situation can be analyzed from multiple perspectives:

1. Legal Perspective:

• According to Article 239AA of the Constitution (for UTs like Delhi), the LG has executive power in matters outside the purview of the elected government. However, governance over subjects like ‘Services’ has been contentious.
• The Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the elected government on service matters, but with certain exceptions where the Central Government retains overriding authority.

2. Administrative Perspective:

• Having two appointed officials for the same position creates administrative paralysis and confusion among subordinates.
• It undermines the functioning of the ACB, delaying its crucial work in fighting corruption.

3. Political Perspective:

• The tussle reflects a larger political struggle between the Central and UT governments, affecting governance and policy implementation.
• It can erode public confidence in institutions and lead to bureaucratic inefficiency.

Implications of the Standoff:

• Delay in ACB’s operations weakens the anti-corruption drive.
• Conflicts between the LG and the government may escalate into legal battles, further delaying resolution.
• A divided bureaucracy leads to inefficiency and reduced morale among officers.

Steps to Resolve the Issue:

• Seek Legal Clarification: Approach the concerned legal authority (Supreme Court or High Court) for a definitive ruling on jurisdiction.
• Engage in Dialogue: Facilitate a meeting between the Chief Minister, LG, and Home Ministry to arrive at a consensus.
• Request a Policy Directive: Seek a clear directive from the Central Government or President to establish clarity on appointments.
• Propose a Temporary Solution: Agree to work under the senior-most officer or an interim arrangement to ensure that ACB’s work does not suffer.
• Follow Constitutional Norms: Uphold the principles of neutrality and abide by the final legal resolution to maintain bureaucratic integrity.

By taking a balanced, legal, and diplomatic approach, the crisis can be resolved without compromising governance efficiency.

Q3: Amit Kumar has been appointed as a senior Superintendent of Police in one of the communally sensitive districts of Uttar Pradesh. A terrorist involved in a serial bomb blast case has been given capital punishment recently. A local communal organization has asked the police for the permission to carry out a procession on the day of execution of death penalty. The organization also wants the police authorities to allow the funeral prayers be held on the streets of locality where the terrorist used to live. The situation is very sensitive as many in the community to which the terrorist belong feels that justice has not been done to the terrorist. Such prayers are usually done at the place of burial itself. Amit has been asked to take the decision regarding the permission. Allowing such activities may lead to communal clashes and not allowing them can further fuel the negative sentiments of the community towards the government. Analyze the situation from different perspectives and explain what decision Amit should take under such scenario. (250 words, 20 marks)
Ans: Amit Kumar, as the Senior Superintendent of Police, faces a challenging situation that requires a balanced approach to maintain law and order while respecting religious sentiments. The decision must consider the following perspectives:
1. Law and Order Perspective: Allowing a communal organization to hold a procession on the day of execution could provoke tensions, as it may be perceived as a celebration of the terrorist’s death. Given the sensitive nature of the case, it could lead to clashes between different communities, endangering public safety. Similarly, permitting funeral prayers on the streets, rather than at the burial site, could be seen as an act of defiance against the state’s decision and might escalate tensions further.
2. Legal Perspective: The Constitution of India guarantees the right to freedom of expression and religious practices under Article 19 and Article 25, but these rights are subject to reasonable restrictions for maintaining public order. Section 144 of the CrPC empowers the district administration to prevent gatherings that could lead to unrest. The police must ensure that no activity violates these legal provisions.
3. Communal Harmony and Public Sentiment: A large section of the community feels that justice has not been done, which can lead to resentment against the government. However, allowing the demands may reinforce radical elements and set a precedent that could be misused in the future. Instead, the police can engage with community leaders to peacefully resolve grievances and ensure the funeral follows standard protocols.
Decision and Justification
Amit should take the following steps:

• Deny permission for the procession and street prayers citing security concerns and public order.
• Encourage the organization to conduct prayers at the burial site as per usual customs.
• Deploy adequate police personnel to prevent any law-and-order disturbance.
• Engage with community leaders to explain the rationale and assure them of the police’s commitment to neutrality.
• Issue a public appeal for peace and take legal action against anyone inciting violence.

This approach ensures that the situation remains under control while respecting legal and communal sensitivities.

Q4: You have been working as a district magistrate in a metropolitan city. It’s the month of June which often sees the development of dust storms in the city leading to very strong winds, poor visibility and dust particulate in air. These storms have the tendency to create many problems and chaos among the citizens through disruption of electricity supply and traffic jams. The city is highly populated with huge electricity demand and pressure on civic amenities. 
(a) What steps you must take in order to mitigate the problems created by these dust storms? 
(b) What shall be your action plan in case of any such emergency? (250 words, 20 marks)
Ans:
(a) Steps to Mitigate Problems Created by Dust Storms

• Early Warning System: Collaborate with the Meteorological Department to establish an effective early warning system and disseminate alerts through SMS, social media, TV, and radio.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate citizens on precautions such as staying indoors, securing loose objects, wearing masks, and avoiding travel during storms.
• Infrastructure Strengthening: Ensure that electric poles, billboards, and trees are regularly maintained to prevent them from collapsing due to strong winds.
• Traffic Management: Coordinate with the traffic police to enforce speed limits and install dust-resistant signals in vulnerable areas.
• Emergency Power Backup: Instruct power companies to establish alternative power supply mechanisms, such as backup generators, in critical areas like hospitals, water treatment plants, and public transport hubs.
• Health Measures: Ensure hospitals and emergency centers are prepared for respiratory issues caused by dust. Distribute face masks, especially to vulnerable groups.
• Coordination Among Departments: Hold regular meetings with municipal corporations, health departments, power utilities, and emergency services to ensure readiness.

(b) Action Plan in Case of Emergency

• Activation of Disaster Response Teams: Deploy emergency response teams, including police, municipal workers, and medical teams, to manage the crisis.
• Restoration of Power and Communication: Coordinate with electricity and telecom companies to restore services quickly.
• Traffic and Public Transport Management: Deploy additional personnel to clear roads, manage traffic, and assist stranded commuters.
• Medical Assistance: Set up temporary health camps and provide emergency medical aid, especially for respiratory patients and the elderly.
• Debris Removal & Sanitation: Mobilize municipal workers to clear fallen trees, electric poles, and other obstructions to ensure smooth movement.
• Public Communication: Use media and official communication channels to provide updates, safety advisories, and helpline numbers.
• Post-Storm Assessment & Rehabilitation: Conduct surveys to assess damages, provide relief, and compensate affected families where necessary.

By implementing these measures, the city can effectively mitigate the impact of dust storms and ensure the safety of its citizens.

Q5: Mass cheating in examinations is not a recent phenomenon in India, In fact in recent times it has become organized. Recently Indian and foreign media featured prominently parents and relatives scaling school walls and buildings, to pass answer chits to students taking secondary school examinations in Bihar. It has dented India’s Image at global forum. With the advent of technology it has become more sophisticated. These rackets are run by Doctors, teachers, engineers, exam invigilators. In fact movies like Lage Rahe Munna Bhai had brought such issues into public notice still a stringent law to tackle the menace are a distant dream. Write your stand on the same and also suggest measures to tackle the menace. (250 words, 20 marks)
Ans: Mass cheating in examinations has long been a persistent issue in India. However, in recent years, it has evolved into a well-organized racket, involving not just students but also parents, teachers, invigilators, and even professionals like doctors and engineers. The infamous case of mass cheating in Bihar, where parents and relatives scaled school walls to pass chits, was widely covered by both Indian and international media, tarnishing India’s reputation globally.
Impact of Mass Cheating

• Erosion of Meritocracy – Cheating in exams allows undeserving candidates to secure academic and professional opportunities, sidelining deserving students.
• Decline in Educational Standards – The integrity of education is compromised when students pass without actual knowledge or skills.
• Encouragement of Corruption – When officials and educators themselves become part of cheating networks, it fuels corruption in the system.
• Loss of Global Credibility – Such incidents damage India’s global reputation, making degrees from Indian institutions less credible.

Measures to Tackle Mass Cheating

• Stringent Laws and Punishments – A strict anti-cheating law should be enacted, making organized cheating a punishable offense with heavy fines and imprisonment.
• Use of Technology – Biometric verification, AI-based proctoring, and digital surveillance can curb cheating.
• Strict Invigilation – Deploying independent observers and rotating invigilators can reduce inside collusion.
• Public Awareness Campaigns – Highlighting the consequences of cheating can discourage students and parents from engaging in such practices.
• Ethical Education – Schools must instill moral values in students, emphasizing hard work over shortcuts.

Conclusion
Mass cheating is a serious threat to India’s education system and future workforce. A combination of legal, technological, and social measures is required to curb this menace effectively. Only by restoring integrity in examinations can India ensure a fair and competent society.

Q6: One of the many unintended consequences of the growth of internet and information technology is the increasing exposure of people towards pornography and adultery. This is causing serious problems in many contexts. Analyze this problem in detail and indicate not only the socio-economic but also the emotional and cultural factors responsible for this problem? Also, distinctly bring out—
(a) Why this tendency of watching pornography and cheating your spouse is increasing? b) What effects does it have on people across different age groups? 
(c) What should be the role of government in this regard? What feasible steps can you suggest which will be effective in controlling this menace among juveniles? (250 words, 20 marks)
Ans: The Impact of Internet Growth on Pornography and Adultery
The rapid advancement of internet and information technology has inadvertently led to increased exposure to pornography and a rise in extramarital affairs. This issue has serious socio-economic, emotional, and cultural consequences.
Reasons for the Increasing Trend

• Easy Accessibility – The internet has made explicit content widely available with minimal restrictions.
• Anonymity and Privacy – Individuals can consume adult content or engage in affairs discreetly.
• Diminishing Social Stigma – Cultural acceptance of casual relationships has reduced the guilt associated with adultery.
• Dopamine and Addiction – Pornography provides instant gratification, leading to addiction and desensitization.
• Marital Dissatisfaction – Unfulfilled emotional and physical needs push individuals toward virtual or real-life infidelity.

Effects Across Age Groups

• Children & Teenagers – Early exposure leads to unrealistic expectations, behavioral changes, and potential addiction.
• Young Adults – Increased objectification of relationships, lack of emotional commitment, and reduced productivity.
• Married Individuals – Higher divorce rates, loss of trust, emotional distress, and family breakdowns.
• Elderly – Psychological distress, loneliness, and social alienation due to changing relationship dynamics.

Government’s Role & Solutions

• Regulation & Monitoring – Enforce stricter internet filters and content regulations.
• Digital Literacy & Awareness – Educate individuals about the adverse effects of pornography.
• Strengthening Family Values – Promote cultural awareness and relationship counseling.
• Juvenile Protection Measures – Schools should implement sex education with a moral and ethical perspective.
• Rehabilitation Programs – Support individuals facing addiction through counseling and therapy.

A multi-faceted approach involving governments, parents, educators, and society is essential to address this growing issue effectively.