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GS Mains Model Question & Answer: Discuss Second ARC report on Ethics. Comment
GS Mains Model Question & Answer: Discuss Second ARC report on Ethics. Comment
Q. Discuss Second ARC report on Ethics. Comment
Model Answer:
Discuss Second ARC report on Ethics
The Second Administrative Reforms Commission in its 4 report (2007), “Ethics in
Governance” has extensively covered the issue of ethics and observes, “The crux
of ethical behaviour does not lie in bold words and expressions enshrined as
standards, but in their adoption in action, in sanction against violations, in
putting in place competent disciplinary bodies to investigate allegations of
violations and to impose sanctions quickly and in promoting a culture of
integrity”.
In Its wide ranging recommendations, it has suggested partial state funding of
elections; tightening of anti-defection law and code of ethics for ministers,
legislatures, judiciary and civil servants.
In order to check corruption it has proposed tightening the provision of
Prevention of Corruption Act, making ‘corrupt public servants liable for paying
damages, confiscation of property illegally acquired and speedy trials. Its
recommendations include creation of Lok Pal/ Ombudsman at national, State and
local level with powers to look into charges of complaints against high pubic
functionaries including ministers, chief ministers, MPs and MLAs.
While recommending a Code of Ethics for Civil Servants the Second ARC has observed : “ Civil Service Values which all public servants should aspire, should be defined and made applicable to all tiers of government and parastatal organizations. Any transgression of these values should be treated as misconduct, inviting punishment”. In order to create a regime under which quick disciplinary action can be taken against delinquent Government servants, the ARC has recommended deletion of Article 311 of the Constitution, with a proviso that legislation under article 309 be made to protect public servants against arbitrary action. The Commission has also suggested certain measures to protect honest Civil Servants against malicious complaints
The ARC in its l0th Report on Personnel Administration has re-emphasized the need for prescribing Civil Service Values and laying down a Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics should include : integrity, impartiality, commitment to public service, open accountability, devotion to duty and exemplary behaviour.