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150 Words10 Marks

Q.Should impartial and being non-partisan be considered as indispensable qualities to make a successful civil servant? Discuss with illustrations. (150 words, 10 Marks)

UPSC Mains 2021•Ethics & Integrity

Model Answer

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Syllabus Point

  • Foundational Values for Civil Services – Integrity, Impartiality, Objectivity, Non-Partisanship, Dedication to Public Service

Approach

  1. Introduction (Definition) (30-40 words): Define impartiality and non-partisanship and state their importance as indispensable qualities for ensuring fair, just, and transparent governance.
  2. Body (Explanation) (80-90 words):
    • Explain why impartiality and non-partisanship are essential for civil servants.
    • Provide examples of impartial and non-partisan civil servants.
    • Explain the negative consequences of partisan behavior on society.
  3. Conclusion (20 words): Emphasize how impartiality and non-partisanship are core values of civil service ethics and key to being a successful civil servant.

Introduction

"The neutrality of a bureaucracy is its most important asset." - Max Weber.

  • Impartiality refers to the quality of being unbiased, fair, and neutral in one's judgment or actions. It involves treating all parties or individuals equally, without favoritism, discrimination, or prejudice.
  • Non-partisanship refers to an individual or organization that does not align itself with any particular political party or ideology. Non-partisan individuals do not show bias towards any political party or candidate and instead maintain a neutral position in political matters.

Body

Why Impartiality and Non-Partisanship are Essential:

  • Upholding the Constitution: The Constitution of India mandates that all public servants are duty-bound to act impartially and without any political bias. Public servants take an oath to uphold the Constitution, which includes ensuring that all citizens are treated equally under the law, regardless of their political affiliations.
  • Maintaining Public Trust: The public expects public servants to be fair and unbiased in their decision-making processes. Any hint of political bias or favoritism can erode public trust in the government and lead to a loss of confidence in the democratic process.
  • Ensuring Effective Governance: Public servants are responsible for implementing government policies and programs designed to serve the public interest. Impartiality and non-partisanship are critical to ensuring that these policies are implemented in a fair and equitable manner, without discrimination.
  • Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Public servants must avoid any conflicts of interest that could compromise their ability to serve the public interest. This includes avoiding any affiliations or associations with political parties or interest groups that could influence their decision-making.
  • Upholding the Rule of Law: Impartiality and non-partisanship are essential for upholding the rule of law in India. The law should be applied consistently to all citizens, without any political bias or preference.

Examples of Impartial and Non-Partisan Public Servants:

  • Ashok Khemka, IAS: Known for his non-partisan approach to governance. He is credited with several reforms in the state, including the digitization of land records and the crackdown on illegal mining. He has faced several transfers due to his uncompromising impartiality.
  • Julio Ribeiro, IPS: Known for his impartiality and for upholding the rule of law. He played a key role in tackling terrorism in Punjab in the 1980s and is credited with restoring law and order in the state.
  • Bhupinder Singh and Durga Shakti Nagpal, IAS: Both officers are known for their non-partisan approach to governance. They have taken several bold steps to curb corruption and illegal activities in their respective states, despite facing political backlash and transfers.

Negative Consequences of Partisan Civil Servants on Society:

  • Lack of public trust
  • Inefficient use of resources
  • Unfair treatment of citizens
  • Social polarization
  • Corruption

Conclusion

It is therefore important for civil servants to remain impartial and committed to the public good. A successful civil servant must prioritize the public interest, remain impartial, uphold the rule of law, and embrace professionalism. By putting these principles into practice, civil servants can make a positive difference in the lives of citizens and ensure that government institutions are seen as legitimate and trustworthy.

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