Ethical Dimensions of Whistleblowing in Public Service
What is whistleblowing? Discuss the ethical dimensions and legal protections available to whistleblowers in India.
Model Answer
Introduction: Whistleblowing is the act of disclosing illegal or unethical activities within an organization to authorities or the public.
Ethical Dimensions:
- Moral duty vs. loyalty: Conflict between duty to organization and duty to society
- Utilitarian: Exposing corruption benefits the larger society
- Virtue ethics: Courage, integrity, and honesty motivate genuine whistleblowers
Legal Framework in India:
- Whistleblowers Protection Act, 2014: Mechanism for complaints against Central Government officials
- RTI Act, 2005: Empowers citizens to expose wrongdoing
- Central Vigilance Commission: Accepts whistleblower complaints
Conclusion: Strengthening legal protection and fostering a culture of transparency are key to encouraging ethical whistleblowing.