Total Questions : 1
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Case Study
You are working as a senior officer in a public sector company. One day, a junior colleague, who is known for her diligence and commitment, approaches you in a distressed state. She informs you that her younger brother, a final-year engineering student, has been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness requiring urgent treatment costing Rs. 8 lakh. Being the sole breadwinner in her family, she is struggling to arrange the funds, as her meager salary barely covers her household expenses.
You sympathize with her situation but are unable to provide financial assistance personally. A month later, you notice her spirits have improved, and upon inquiry, she reveals that the treatment is underway, thanks to an advance payment facilitated by the head of the department using discretionary funds allocated for emergency employee welfare. She also shares that she has committed to repaying the amount in monthly installments, which she has already begun.
However, on reviewing the company's guidelines, you realize that the discretionary fund is meant strictly for official purposes and not for personal use under any circumstances. The department head's action, though well-intentioned, bypassed standard procedures and could attract legal and disciplinary consequences if discovered.
(a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case?
(b) As a senior officer aware of the situation, what course of action will you take?
(c) Suggest broader organizational measures to prevent misuse of discretionary funds.
GS Paper 4 Case Studies
