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Question

Rajapuram is a border district. Jhara and Biru, its two major communities are in continual conflict with each other. The social fabric is fractured and demands mending.
Ethnic tensions between the two communities have erupted into violence resulting in a large number of deaths. The stated causes are conflicting land claims, uneven resource allocation and inadequate political representation in government bodies. Separate relief camps had to be created for the two communities. The situation is volatile and appears to be getting out of control.
Rajan has been appointed the District Magistrate (DM) of Rajapuram and tasked to quickly get the situation under control. His immediate tasks include restoring administrative authority, reopening the highway and initiating peace talks. On taking over his appointment, Rajan realized that the inter-community rivalry had even seeped into the local administration and police. With functional neutrality being the immediate casualty, it had made both communities distrustful of the government. The neighbouring country could utilize the opportunity to spur insurgent activity and further aggravate the situation. Rajan favoured a controlled approach starting with opening the highway to restore food and medical supplies. He toyed with the idea of requisitioning CRPF units to help restore administrative control.

Discuss the ethical issues that need to be addressed in this case.

Ethical Issues:

  • Impartiality and non-partisanship in administration and police compromised by ethnic loyalties.
  • Right to life and dignity of both communities — Article 21.
  • Communal justice: Ensuring equitable resource allocation, relief and representation.
  • National security: Preventing exploitation by hostile neighbour.
  • Rule of law vs negotiated peace: Firmness against violence with sensitivity to grievances.
  • Trust deficit: Rebuilding faith in state neutrality.
  • Media and information ethics: Curbing rumours without curbing free speech.
  • Long-term ethical duty: Addressing root causes — land, resources, political voice.

Stakeholders: Both communities, victims/displaced, local administration & police, CRPF, state and central government, neighbouring country, civil society.
 

Answered By:

Sakshi Negi

Sakshi Negi is a Delhi-based journalist and content specialist with expertise in educational content and digital media, focusing particularly on government exam preparation and career guidance. With a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from NRAI School of Mass Communication and her background as a Kendriya Vidyalaya alumna, she brings unique insights into the Indian education system and government sector opportunities.

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