Total Questions : 1
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Ms. Nandita Roy is serving as the District Magistrate of a district known for its industrial growth. A young contractual employee working in a government-run skill development centre files a confidential complaint alleging sexual harassment by a senior officer who oversees multiple welfare programmes in the district.
The complainant states that she was subjected to inappropriate remarks, unwelcome advances, and implicit threats regarding contract renewal if she did not comply. She fears retaliation, social stigma, and loss of livelihood if her identity becomes public. She requests strict action but also seeks protection and confidentiality.
The accused officer is a highly influential figure with a strong track record in programme implementation and enjoys close connections with political leaders. Some senior officials informally advise Ms. Roy to “handle the matter quietly” to avoid administrative disruption and negative publicity. There are also concerns that a formal inquiry may affect ongoing projects and demoralise the bureaucracy.
On the other hand, women’s groups and local NGOs, having become aware of the issue, are demanding transparency, accountability, and a fair inquiry. The media has started reporting on the case, framing it as a test of the administration’s commitment to gender justice.
Further complicating the situation, the district lacks a fully functional Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), and previous complaints in other departments have reportedly been ignored.
Ms. Roy must decide how to respond in a manner that ensures justice for the complainant, upholds due process, protects institutional integrity, and sends the right message regarding workplace ethics.
Questions
1. What are the ethical issues involved in this case?
2. What options are available to Ms. Roy? Evaluate the merits and demerits of each option.
3. What should be the most appropriate course of action for Ms. Roy? Justify your answer in terms of ethical values, gender justice, and administrative responsibility.
GS Paper 4 Case Studies
