Q1(b). Why should impartiality and non-partisanship be considered as foundational values in public services, especially in the present day socio-political context? Illustrate your answer with examples. (150 words) 10
Answer
Impartiality is a principle of justice holding those decision/s that should be based on objective criteria, rather than on the basis of bias, prejudice or preferring to give the benefit to one person over another for improper reasons. Non-partisanship means a lack of affiliation with, and a lack of bias toward, a political party.
If civil servants get influenced by their prejudices, they favour or disfavour people based on caste, religion, gender, race, educational background or their economic condition. When they are partisan, they implement the political agenda rather than doing their duty impartially. When people are not treated fairly, they lose trust in public servants.
For example, some civil servants use politicians to get good postings and the politicians, in turn, use them to serve their political agenda. However, these officers are victimized, when the opposition party/s comes to power.
A good civil servant should be absolutely impartial and non-partisan. They must treat everyone fairly without any bias. They must decide all issues objectively and purely on merit. (170 words)