Mains Practice Questions

Mr. Kunal Mehra is the District Collector of a rapidly industrialising district that has recently attracted significant private investment under the State’s ease-of-doing-business initiative. A large manufacturing unit employing over 3,000 local workers has begun operations and is being projected as a model success story.

A junior environmental engineer in the district administration confidentially approaches Mr. Mehra with documentary evidence suggesting that the company has been routinely violating pollution norms especially groundwater contamination and improper disposal of hazardous waste. The engineer admits that senior officials in the pollution control board have ignored inspection reports under pressure from political and business interests. The whistleblower fears retaliation, transfer, or career stagnation if his identity is revealed.

If Mr. Mehra orders a formal inquiry or shuts down the unit, it could lead to job losses, investor backlash, and accusations of being “anti-development.” Political executives informally convey that the matter should be “resolved internally” to avoid damaging the State’s investment image.

At the same time, local farmers have begun reporting declining crop yields and health problems, which may be linked to industrial pollution. Media interest is growing, and civil society organisations are demanding accountability and transparency.

Mr. Mehra must decide how to handle the whistleblower’s complaint while balancing environmental justice, economic development, and institutional integrity.

Questions

1. What ethical issues are involved in this case?
2. What options are available to Mr. Mehra? Evaluate the merits and demerits of each.
3. What should be the most appropriate course of action for Mr. Mehra? Justify your answer with reference to ethical principles and constitutional values.