Ethics 2026 Section B

                                                    Section B

Lata, a mother of two children, was admitted to a hospital for acute abdominal pain. Her sister-in-law, Sujatha, accompanied her. Dr. Mansi examined Lata and recommended a diagnostic laparoscopy. Lata’s consent was taken to conduct the medical procedure under general anesthesia.

During the laparoscopy, Dr. Mansi’s team discovered a tumor in Lata’s uterus. A closer examination suggested that the tumor could be malignant.

One option before Dr. Mansi was to extract a sample for biopsy. In that case, if the tumor was malignant, Lata would have to undergo another surgery for removal of the uterus. An alternative was to remove the uterus immediately. Dr. Mansi had to take a quick decision.

As Lata was under general anesthesia, Dr. Mansi explained the situation to Sujatha. Sujatha agreed with Dr. Mansi’s recommendations for a hysterectomy, wherein Lata’s uterus would be removed to avoid the risk and pain of undergoing another surgery. Dr. Mansi removed Lata’s uterus after receiving Sujatha’s consent in writing. Lata was informed of this the next day. She was very upset and felt betrayed, as she had not consented to the removal of her uterus.

Lata complained to the police who tried to convince her that Dr. Mansi had acted with good intention to help a patient. Sujatha was of the same opinion, however, Lata was not convinced and decided to approach the court.

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

(b)   Discuss the moral conduct of the doctor in this situation.

Ethical Issues

·         Patient - Autonomy

·         Doctor – Beneficence

·         Doctor – Non-maleficence –To prevent future pain 

·         Beneficence does not automatically override autonomy

·         Paternalism – Only when it is necessary; To be extra careful when we are taking irreversible decisions

·         Trust in Healthcare professional

·         Informed Consent – Adequate information; what? Benefits? Risks? Alternatives?

·         Lata approached court – appropriate; Doctor – Opportunity to explain

Moral Conduct of the Doctor

Merits

·         Concern for the patient welfare

·         Consultation with a family member

·         Communication to Lata after Surgery

Demerits

·         Failure to respect Patient Autonomy

·         Consent to laparoscopy vs consent to hysterectomy

·         Relative’s Consent vs Patent’s consent

·         There was no emergency to take decision

Ethical Decision Making

·         Intention – Procedures - Consequences

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Ravi is a senior police officer with vast experience in riot control and cyber-policing. Since one year, he has been the Superintendent of Police (SP) of a district with a history of frequent rioting.

Last year, Ravi had sought installation of an AI-enabled software for predictive policing. This system has been operational for approximately six months. This system employs advanced algorithms for capturing the biometric data of persons in a crowd and swiftly relating it to a data library. This has enabled the police to identify the persons involved in various crimes.

The system has identified an immigrant and low-income neighbourhood as a centre for gang violence and drug trafficking. Aided by this AI analysis, the local police has focused its patrolling, preventive detentions and establishing checkpoints. Consequently, public order and law enforcement has visibly improved.

Last week, some community leaders, civil rights lawyers and human rights activists visited Ravi’s office. They submitted a memorandum that the new system is faulty as it is based on incorrect historical data caused by social biases and discriminatory policing. The memorandum also alleges that the increased surveillance has created a climate of tension amongst residents. This feeling is aggravated by the fact that the residents are not aware of the data noted against their names.

(a)    What are the ethical issues including biases involved in the use of AI in data-driven policing?

(b)   Place yourself in Ravi’s role and discuss the alternatives available. Justify the action that optimises compliance with ethics.

Public Security and Human Rights

Ethical Issues – AI-driven Data Policing

·         AI systems learn patterns from trained data

·         Historical data vs Present Status

·         Security Measures vs Unjustified restrictions

·         Targets areas – More surveillance – More arrests – More bias

·         Unrestricted Surveillance and preventive detention – Affects individual liberty; climate of fear;

·         Transparency and Accountability - If we do not understand AI’s logic – How can we explain - Why has he been tracked? Why police deployment in such location?

·         Empathy and Compassion towards weaker section – immigrant and low-income area

Alternatives Discussion

Continue with the Present System

·         + Public order and law enforcement may improve

·         -  May violate privacy and undermine public trust

Immediate Discontinue Permanently

·         + Concern for the weaker section – Talisman

·         - Failure to use the technology (AI)

Recommended Course of Action

·         AI – Assistant vs Boss

·         Training to the stakeholders - Purpose of technology and its limitations

·         Effective GRM

·         Community Engagement

·         Objectivity and Impartality

AI –To be used to strengthen policing not to replace human judgement

Ethics 2026 QA

                                                    Section A

Owing to paucity of time, a university professor generates a Ph.D. evaluation report using Artificial Intelligence and submits it with some modifications. Discuss this from the perspective of accountability and integrity.  2026

Accountability

·         Self Accountability

·         Using AI vs Dependence on AI

·         AI – Hidden bias; Errors

Integrity

·         Professional Integrity

·         Consistency – Paucity of time

·         Confidentiality

AI as an Assistant not as Master

A business house is working on a project that could displace a forest community from their habitat. As the administrative officer of that district, what ethical challenges are you likely to face? 2026

Conflict between Economic Growth and Social Welfare

Ethical Challenges

·         Employment Opportunities and Right to livelihood and habitat

·         Costs and Benefits of development (Vulnerable vs Powerful)

·         Environmental Ethics – Forest, biodiversity

·         Procedural Formality vs Meaningful Conversation

·         Integrity – Temptations and Pressure

EIA and SIA; Transparency and Participatory

An endangered tribe has developed a severe skeletal deformity. A university researcher has identified a mineral supplement as a possible remedy, though clinical trials are yet to be conducted. Should the District Magistrate (DM) use this research on the tribe? Discuss from the perspective of medical and administrative ethics.

·         Beneficence

·         Non-maleficence

·         Informed Consent

·         Autonomy

·         Bureaucrats - Established Procedure

Discuss how national security can be balanced with concerns of human rights.

National Security

·         What? - Country is safe, independent, stable and capable of protecting it people and national interest; Protection from internal and external threats

·         How? - Preventive detention, Biometrics, Surveillance, Internet restrictions, Restrictions on public assemblies, Border Controls etc

Human Rights – Freedom of movement; Right to privacy, Freedom of speech and expression

·         Not necessarily Contradictory

·         Restrictions  - Only when it is necessary; remove it as early as possible

·         Restrictions – Problem and benefits

·         Security Agencies – External Accountability –Judiciary

·         Data – Prevent Hacking; Misuse

·         Ethical use of Power

Security and Liberty

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar had cautioned that employing civil disobedience within a constitutional democracy equates to endorsing ‘anarchy’. How should modern democracies navigate the ethical dilemmas posed by civil disobedience movements that aim to promote social justice against genuine concerns?

Civil Disobedience

·         What? - Deliberate and peaceful violation of certain laws;

·         Why? - Perceived injustice

·         How? – Protest on railway tracks, blocking highways, Non-cooperation to authorities, etc

Modern Democracy’s Approach

Protestors

·         Grievances – Legislators, Executives, Courts, Social Media, Elections etc

·         Grievances – Serious injustice vs Personal benefit

·         Method – Peaceful, avoid destructions (life/property), Respect others’ rights

Government

·         No blind acceptance or suppression

·         Empathy, Objectivity, Negotiation

·         Ensure Consistency, Impartiality

Right to dissent and Law and order

In what ways can an Indian Administrative Officer apply Gandhi’s notion of ‘trusteeship’ to ensure fairness in governance?

Trusteeship – Power/wealth/resources – welfare of stakeholders

Public Masters vs Public Servants – Public interest

·         Equality and Equity

·         Transparency

·         Participatory

·         Impartiality

·         Accountability

·         Simple Life

Shakespeare in Henry IV says, “The arms are fair when the intent of bearing them is just”. What ethical implications does this have in governance?

Power/Coercive authority – Legitimate and just purpose vs Self-interest; interest of powerful

·         Armed forces – weapons – defend the country

·         Police - Lathi charge/tear gas –Mob attacks innocent people (black magic)/Protestors damaging public property, attack on police

·         Not to use – To punish peaceful protestors, influence voters etc

Intentions - Means - End

Citing the serious adverse effects of long-term medication, a doctor convinces the family of a female patient for surgery. This led the patient to reluctantly consent for the surgery, though her original choice was to opt for medication. Explain the concepts of paternalism and beneficence by analysing the doctor’s action.

·         Paternalism – I know what is best for you, interference in others autonomy

·         Beneficence – Do good, Patient’s welfare

·         Patient – Competent?

·         Complete information – risks, benefits, alternatives; Discussions; Consent

·         Beneficence and Autonomy

Efficiency is doing things right, while effectiveness is doing the right thing. How do you strike a balance between the two to enhance productivity?

·         Proper planning

·         Competent Authorities

·         Resources Allocation – Impartiality and Equity

·         Transparency and Participation

·         Technology utilization

·         Feedback

·         Evaluation – Money spent vs Outcomes

·         Continuous Evaluation

Usually schools, working in remote areas, do not fully comply with government regulations. However, if the rules are enforced strictly, it would lead to most schools closing down. How should an administrator strike a balance between enforcement of rules and educational rights of children?

Strict enforcement of law vs Protection of Children’s educational rights

·         Govt schools or private schools…?

·         Violations…? – building safety, fire safety, toilets, libraries, vacancy, attendance, permissions

·         Why? – Funding, resource persons, travel etc.

·         Consequences…? – Quality of education, dropouts, child labour, child marriage, etc..

Strict Enforcement – Schools close down - Maleficence

·         Nature of violations – Serious or Minor; Negligence vs lack of resources

·         Stakeholder Consultation – Community participation

·         Gradual Compliance

·         Technical and Financial Support

·         Flexibility within the law

·         Accountability

Procedural Justice and Substantive Justice

Strict on standards, sensitive to circumstances, and commitment to quality education

In international relations, ethical considerations are often subjugated to the strategic interests of nation-states. Discuss this from an ethical perspective.

Strategic interest of nations…? – Welfare of citizens, sovereignty and security; Economy, Energy, Technology, global image etc

Ethical Considerations – Human rights, Non-violence, care for refugees, Environmental protection etc…

Ethical Dilemmas

·         Maintaining trade relations with the countries involving in war

·         Military operations – Death, injury and displacement of civilians

·         Border Security – Refugee concerns

·         Arms sale - Violence

Solutions

·         Diversify energy source; Encourage peace talks

·         More specific targets

·         Co-ordinate Effort

·         Monitor end use

Narrow nationalism – Unconditional Idealism – Ethical grounded realism

On the request of his Personal Assistant (PA), the District Magistrate (DM) stops the transfer of a schoolteacher who takes private tuition for his daughter diagnosed with learning disability. In this context, discuss the aspects of empathy versus compliance with rules.

Empathy

·         DM – PA and his daughter; she needs special care;

·         Builds loyalty of PA; Emotional commitment towards org

·         Allowing exception – Favoritism; Public trust-deficit

Rules

·         Uniform approval of rules – All schoolteachers

·         It brings fairness and objectivity

How to deal?

·         Administrative Integrity

·         Are there any exceptions?

·         Alternative support mechanism for the child?

Some moral philosophers argue that spending some of your resources—without significantly affecting your financial stability—to help other people who badly suffer is our moral duty and not merely a matter of charity. Justify this claim by explaining the distinction between duty and charity.

Duty and Charity

·         Duty - Obligation; Consequences not violation of duty

·         Charity – Voluntary assistance; Choice

Examples

·         Food to the hungry person

·         Helping flood victims

·         Education of an underprivileged child

Justification

·         Humanity - Every person deserve basic standards of life

·         Moral Responsibility – Little sacrifice – great benefit

·         Self Respect – Helping others

·         Beneficence – Do good

·         Aristotle – Golden Mean

·         Good of an individual contained in the good of all

·         Sarvoday; Antyoday; vasudaiva kutumabakam; Talisman

 

Ethics Test Key Points

 

                                              Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude

Key Points

Is it ever morally justifiable to break the law? If so, under what circumstances? (10 marks | 150 words)

What is ’emotional intelligence’ and how can it be developed in people? How does it help an individual in taking ethical decisions? (10 marks | 150 words)

A building permitted for three floors, while being extended illegally to 6 floors by a builder, collapses. As a consequence, a number of innocent labourers including women and children died. These labourers are migrants of different places. The government immediately announced cash relief to the aggrieved families and arrested the builder.

Give reasons for such incidents taking place across the country. Suggest measures to prevent their occurrence.

A civil servant is asked by their supervisor to manipulate data in a report to make it more favorable to a particular policy or decision. The civil servant knows that the data is inaccurate and that the manipulation would be unethical.  How can the civil servant maintain their integrity and uphold ethical standards in the face of pressure from their superiors? (10 marks | 150 words)

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With regard to the morality of actions, one view is that means is of paramount importance and the other view is that the ends justify the means. Which view do you think is more appropriate? Justify your answer.

What does the following quotation mean to you? “If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. They are the father, the mother and the teacher.” – Abdul Kalam.

You are the manager of a spare parts company A and you have to negotiate a deal with the manager of a large manufacturing company B. The deal is highly competitive and sealing the deal is critical for your company. The deal is being worked out over a dinner. After dinner the manager of manufacturing company B offered to drop you to the hotel in his car. On the way to hotel he happens to hit motorcycle injuring the motorcyclist badly. You know the manager was driving fast and thus lost control.

The law enforcement officer comes to investigate the issue and you are the sole eyewitness to it. Knowing the strict laws pertaining to road accidents you are aware that your honest account of the incident would lead to the prosecution of the manager and as a consequence the deal is likely to be jeopardized, which is of immense importance to your company.

·         What are the options available to you?

·         Evaluate each of these options and choose the option which you would adopt, giving reasons. (20 marks| 250 words)

A fresh engineering graduate gets a job in a prestigious chemical industry. She likes the work. The salary is also good. However, after a few months she accidentally discovers that a highly toxic waste is being secretly discharged into a river nearby. This is causing health problems to the villagers downstream who depend on the river for their water needs. She is perturbed and mentions her concern to her colleagues who have been with the company for longer periods.

They advise her to keep quite as anyone who mentions the topic is summarily dismissed.  She cannot risk losing her job as she is the sole bread-winner for her family and has to support her ailing parents and siblings. At first, she thinks that if her seniors are keeping quiet, why should she stick out her neck. But her conscience pricks her to do something to save the river and the people who depend upon it.  At heart she feels that the advice of silence given by her friends is not correct though she cannot give reasons for it. She thinks you are a wise person and seeks your advice.

a)      What arguments can you advance to show her that keeping quiet is not morally right?

b)     What course of action would you advise her to adopt and why? (250 words)

You are the District Collector of a flood-prone region. Due to unexpected heavy rains, floods have devastated villages, displacing thousands. The government has allocated limited relief resources, including food, medical aid and rescue boats. However, you are faced with several challenges:

(a) Resource Shortage: The relief supplies are not enough to cover all affected areas equally.

(b) Political Pressure: Local politicians are pressuring you to prioritise aid for their constituencies.

(c) Media Scrutiny: News agencies are covering the relief efforts, questioning transparency in resource distribution.

·         How will you allocate limited resources fairly and efficiently? Will you yield to political pressure or ensure equitable distribution of aid?

·         What steps will you take to maintain transparency and public trust in relief operations? (250 words | 20 marks)