2023 Case Studies

 

You are working as an executive in a nationalised bank for several years. One day one of your close colleagues tells you that her father is suffering from heart disease and needs surgery to service. She also tells you that she has no insurance and the operation will cost about Rs 10 lakh. You are also aware of the fact that her husband and that she is from a lower middle class family. You are empathetic about her situation. However, apart from expressing your sympathy, you do not have the resources to fund her.

A few weeks later, you ask her about the well-being of her father and she informs you about his successful surgery and that he is recovering. She then confides in you that the bank manager was kind enough to facilitate the release of 10 lakhs from a dormant account of someone to pay for the operation with a promise that it should be confidential and be repaid at the earliest. She has already started paying it back and will continue to do so until it is all returned.

(a)    What are the ethical issues involved?

(b)   Evaluate the behavior of the bank manager from an ethical point of view.

(c)    How would you react to the situation?

 

Key Points

(a) Ethical issues involved:

Confidentiality: The bank manager facilitated the release of funds from a dormant account without the account holder's consent and with the promise of confidentiality. This raises ethical concerns about the breach of customer privacy and trust.

(b) Evaluation of the bank manager's behavior:

The bank manager's actions can be evaluated from an ethical point of view as follows:

·         Positive Aspect: The manager showed compassion and empathy by helping a colleague in need, which is a commendable act from a humanistic perspective.

·         Negative Aspect: However, the manager also violated banking ethics by accessing and using funds from a dormant account without proper authorization. This could lead to legal and ethical repercussions.

(c) How to react to the situation:

As an executive in the bank, your ethical responsibilities should include:

·         Maintaining Confidentiality: Respect the confidentiality of the situation and do not disclose any sensitive information to others.

·         Seek Guidance: If you believe the bank manager's actions were unethical or violated bank policies, consider discussing the situation with higher authorities or the bank's compliance department.

·         Support Colleague: Offer emotional support and encouragement to your colleague during her challenging time, even if you cannot provide financial assistance.

·         Promote Ethical Culture: Encourage a culture of ethical behavior within the organization and ensure that employees are aware of the bank's policies and guidelines.

 

A landslide occurred in the middle of the night on 20th July 2023 in a remote mountain hamlet, approximately 60 kilometers from Uttarkashi. The landslide was caused by torrential rains and has resulted in large-scale destruction of property and life. You, as District Magistrate of that area, have rushed to the spot with a team of doctors, NGOs, media and police along with numerous support staff to oversee the rescue operations.

A man came running to you with a request for urgent medical help for his pregnant wife who is in labour and in loosing blood. You directed your medical team to examine his wife. They return and convey to you that this woman needs blood transfusion immediately. Upon enquiry, you come to know that a few blood collection bags and blood group test kits are available in the ambulance accompanying your team. Few people of your team have already volunteered to donate blood.

Being a physician who has graduated from AIIMS, you know that blood for transfusion needs to be procured only through a recognized blood bank. Your team members are divided on this issue; some favour transfusing, while some others oppose it. The doctors in the team are ready to facilitate the delivery provided they are not penalised for transfusion. Now you are a dilemma. Your professional training emphasizes on prioritising service to humanity and saving lives of individuals.

(a)    What are the ethical issues involved in this case?

(b)   Evaluate the options available to you, being District Magistrate of the area.

(a) Ethical issues involved:

·         Medical Ethics: The primary ethical issue is the decision to administer a blood transfusion in a situation where the source of the blood is not a recognized blood bank, potentially risking the patient's health.

·         Professional Duty: The District Magistrate faces a conflict between professional duty to uphold the law and ethical responsibility to save a life.

·         Legal Implications: There may be legal consequences for allowing unauthorized blood transfusions.

(b) Options available to the District Magistrate:

·         Seek Legal Clarification: Consult with legal authorities to determine if there are any legal provisions that allow for emergency blood transfusions in such situations.

·         Contact a Recognized Blood Bank: Attempt to contact a recognized blood bank and arrange for a legal blood transfusion while ensuring the patient's safety.

·         Document the Decision: Clearly document the decision-making process, including the ethical dilemma faced, in case it is needed for future legal or ethical scrutiny.

·         Address Team Concerns: Have a discussion with the team members who oppose the transfusion and try to find a consensus on the best course of action.

 

Q9.  At 9 pm on Saturday evening, Rashika, a Joint Secretary, was still engrossed in her work in her office. Her husband, Vikram, is an executive in an MNC and frequently out of town in connection with his work. Their two children aged 5 and 3 are looked after by their domestic helper. At 9:30 pm her superior, Mr. Suresh calls her and asks her to prepare a detailed note on an important matter to be discussed in a meeting in the Ministry. She realises that she will have to work on Sunday to finish the additional task given by her superior.

She reflects on how she had asked forward to the posting and had worked long hours for months to achieve it, he had kept the welfare of people uppermost in discharging her duties. She feels that she has not done enough Justice to her family and she has not fulfilled her duties in discharging essential social obligations. Even as recently as last month she had to leave her sick child in the nanny’s care as she had to work in the office. Now, she feels that she must draw a line, beyond which her personal life should take precedence over her professional responsibilities. She thinks that there should be reasonable limits to the work ethics such as punctuality, hard work, dedication to duty and selfless service.

(a)    Discuss the ethical issue involved in this case.

(b)   Briefly describe at least four laws that have been enacted by the Government of India with respect to providing a healthy, safe and equitable working environment for women.

(c)    Imagine you are in a similar situation. What suggestions would you make to mitigate such working conditions?

 

 (a) Ethical issue involved:

·         Work-Life Balance: The main ethical issue is the balance between professional responsibilities and personal obligations, particularly in the context of Rashika's demanding job and her family's needs.

(b) Laws for Women's Workplace Rights in India:

·         The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013: This law addresses issues related to sexual harassment at the workplace and mandates the establishment of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) in organizations.

·         The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961: This act provides maternity benefits to women employees, including paid maternity leave and protection against dismissal during pregnancy.

·         The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976: This law prohibits gender-based wage discrimination and ensures equal pay for equal work.

·         The Factories Act, 1948: While not specific to women, it includes provisions related to the health, safety, and welfare of all workers, which indirectly benefit female workers.

(c) Mitigating working conditions:

·         Prioritize Tasks: Effectively prioritize tasks and deadlines to manage work efficiently and reduce the need for excessive overtime.

·         Delegate Responsibility: Delegate tasks when possible and communicate with colleagues to share responsibilities.

·         Flexible Work Arrangements: Explore flexible work arrangements like remote work or part-time options to achieve a better work-life balance.

·         Support Network: Build a support network within the family, including her husband and domestic helper, to share childcare responsibilities.

·         Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life, and communicate these boundaries with superiors and colleagues.

 

Vinod is an honest and sincere IAS officer. Recently, he has taken over as Managing Director of the State Road Transport Corporation, his sixth transfer in the past three years. His peers acknowledge his vast knowledge affability and uprightness.

The Chairman of the State Road Transport Corporation is a powerful politician and is very close to the Chief Minister. Vinod comes to know about many alleged irregularities of the Corporation and the high-handedness of the Chairman in financial matters.

A Board Member of the Corporation belonging to the Opposition Party meets Vinod and hands over a few documents along with a video recording in which the Chairman appears to be demanding bribe for placing a huge order for the supply of QMR tyres. Vinod recollects the Chairman expediting clearing of pending bills of QMR tyres.

Vinod confronts the Board Member as to why he is shying away from exposing the Chairman with the so-called solid proof he has with him. The members inform him that the Chairman refuses to yield to his threats. He adds that Vinod may earn recognition and public support if he himself exposes the Chairman. Further, he tells Vinod that once his party comes to power, Vinod’s professional growth would be assured.

Vinod is aware that he may be penalised if he exposes the Chairman and may further be transferred to a distant place. He knows that Opposition Party stands a better chance of coming to power in the forthcoming elections. However, he also realises that the Board Member is trying to use him for his own political gains.

(a)    As a conscientious civil servant, evaluate the options available to Vinod.

(b)   In the light of the above case, comment upon the ethical issues that may arise due to the politicization of bureaucracy.

 (a) Options available to Vinod:

·         Expose the Chairman: Vinod can choose to expose the Chairman's alleged irregularities and demand an investigation, even though it may risk his own position and result in transfers.

·         Gather More Evidence: Vinod can gather more evidence of the Chairman's misconduct to strengthen his case before taking any action.

·         Seek Whistleblower Protection: Consult legal experts and seek whistleblower protection under relevant laws to mitigate potential retaliation.

·         Report to Higher Authorities: Report the situation to higher authorities in the government, such as the Chief Minister, to ensure a fair investigation.

(b) Ethical issues due to politicization of bureaucracy:

·         Conflict of Interest: Politicization can lead to conflicts of interest where civil servants prioritize political interests over public welfare.

·         Erosion of Autonomy: It can erode the autonomy of civil servants, making them susceptible to undue political pressure.

·         Loss of Public Trust: The public may lose trust in government institutions if they perceive that bureaucrats are influenced by political considerations rather than impartiality.

 

You have just been appointed as Additional Director General of Central Public Works Department. The Chief Architect of your division, who is to retire in six months, is passionately working on a very important project, the successful completion of which would earn him a lasting reputation for the rest of his life.

A new lady architect, Seema, trained at Manchester School of Architecture, UK joined as Senior Architect in your division. During the briefing about the project, Seema made some suggestions which would not only add value to the project, but would also reduce completion time. This has made the Chief Architect insecure and he is constantly worried that all the credit will go to her. Subsequently, he adopted a passive and aggressive behaviour towards her and has become disrespectful to her. Seema felt it embarrassing as the Chief Architect left no chance of humiliating her. He would very often correct her in front of other colleagues and raise his voice while speaking to her. This continuous harassment has resulted in her losing confidence and self-esteem. She felt perpetually tensed, anxious and stressed. She appeared to be in awe of him since he has had a long tenure in the office and has vast experience in the area of her work.

You are aware of her outstanding academic credentials and career in her previous organizations. However, you fear that this harassment may result in compromising her much needed contribution in this important project and may adversely impact her emotional well-being. You have also come to know from her peers that she is contemplating tendering her resignation.

(a)    What are the ethical issues involved in the above case?

(b)   What are the options available to you in order to complete the project as well as to retain Seema in the organization?

(c)    What would be your response to Seema’s predicament?

(d)   What measures would you institute to prevent such occurrence from happening in your organization?

 

(a) Ethical issues involved:

·         Harassment and Bullying: The Chief Architect's harassment of Seema is a clear ethical issue, affecting her emotional well-being and work performance.

·         Unfair Credit: The Chief Architect's desire to take credit for Seema's ideas and contributions raises concerns about fairness and professionalism.

·         Abuse of Power: The Chief Architect's position of authority is being used to mistreat and belittle a subordinate.

(b) Options available:

·         Mediation: Initiate mediation or conflict resolution sessions between the Chief Architect and Seema to address the issues and foster a better working relationship.

·         Document and Report: Encourage Seema to document instances of harassment and report them to HR or higher authorities in the organization.

·         Provide Support: Offer emotional support and encouragement to Seema, making it clear that her contributions are valued.

·         Training and Sensitization: Organize workshops and training on workplace ethics, harassment prevention, and respectful communication for all employees.

(c) Preventative measures:

To prevent such occurrences in the organization, the following measures can be instituted:

·         Anti-Harassment Policy: Implement a clear anti-harassment policy and reporting mechanism in the organization.

·         Training Programs: Conduct regular training programs on workplace ethics, diversity, and respectful behavior.

·         Leadership Training: Provide leadership training to managers and senior employees on how to mentor and support junior staff effectively.

·         Confidential Reporting: Ensure that employees can report harassment or unethical behavior confidentially and without fear of retaliation.

·         Counseling Services: Offer counseling services to employees facing workplace stress or harassment.

 

 

You hold a responsible position in a ministry in the government. One day in the morning you received a call from the school of your 11-year-old son that you are required to come and meet the Principal. You proceed to the school and find your son in the Principal’s office. The Principal informs you that your son had been found wandering aimlessly in the grounds during the time classes were in progress. The class teacher further informs you that your son has lately become a loner and did not respond to questions in the class, he had also been unable to perform well in the football trials held recently. You bring your son back from the school and in the evening, you along with your wife try to find out the reasons for your son’s changed behavior. After repeated cajoling, your son shares that some children had been making fun of him in the class as well as in the WhatsApp group of the students by calling him stunted, duh and a frog. He tells you the names of a few children who are the main culprits but pleads with you to let the matter rest.

After a few days, during a sporting event, where you and your wife have gone to watch your son play, one of your colleague’s son shows you a video in which students have caricatured your son. Further, he also points out to perpetrators who were sitting in the stands. You purposefully walk past them with your son and go home. Next day, you find on social media, a video denigrating you, your son and even your wife, stating that you engaged in physical bullying of children in the sports field. The video became viral on social media. Your friends and colleagues began calling you to find out the details. One of your juniors advised you to make a counter video giving the background and explaining that nothing had happened on the field. You, in turn posted a video which you have captured during the sporting event, identifying the likely perpetrators who were responsible for your son’s predicament. You have also narrated what has actually happened in the field and made attempts to bring out the adverse effects of the misuse of social media.

(a)    Based on the above case study, discuss the ethical issues involved in the use of social media.

(b)   Discuss the pros and cons of using social media by you to put across the facts to counter the fake propaganda against your family.

 

 (a) Ethical issues involved in the use of social media:

·         Cyberbullying: The initial act of bullying your son faced on social media is an ethical issue, as it involves the harassment and humiliation of a minor.

·         False Accusations: The false accusations against you and your family in the viral video raise ethical concerns about spreading false information.

·         Privacy: The invasion of your family's privacy through the circulation of videos and personal information is an ethical violation.

(b) Pros and cons of using social media to counter fake propaganda:

Pros:

·         Clarification: Using social media allows you to clarify the facts and provide your side of the story to a wide audience.

·         Transparency: It can promote transparency and counter false narratives.

·         Community Support: Social media can garner support from friends, colleagues, and the online community.

Cons:

·         Escalation: Responding on social media can escalate the situation and attract further negative attention.

·         Privacy Risks: Sharing personal information online can expose your family to additional privacy risks.

·         Misinterpretation: Social media responses can be misinterpreted or manipulated, leading to unintended consequences.

In such a situation, it's important to carefully consider the potential impact of using social media and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.