Ethics
Preserving the Past: Heritage Destruction and Corruption
- 01 Aug 2023
- 1 min read
Ms. Aanya Sharma is an officer under the Indian Administrative Services (IAS). During her tenure, an opportunity arose for her to engage in an illegal act for significant personal gains.
In her area of jurisdiction, there had been a 10th century ancient monument that was neglected for years and required extensive restoration. However, when a construction company approached her with a proposal to demolish the monument and construct a government accommodation in its place, promising her a generous bribe for her support, she succumbs to the allure.
Believing that the government accommodation project could benefit the employees with much needed infrastructure providing better working conditions, she did not pay much heed to the irreparable loss of a valuable historical monument and destruction of cultural heritage.
Once the accusations against Ms. Sharma came to light, she was suspended from her position. What ethical principles should guide public servants like IAS officers in making decisions that impact cultural heritage?
