Q1. Conflict of interest in the public sector arises when (a) official duties, (b) public interest and (c) personal interest are taking priority one above the other.
How can this conflict in administration be resolved? Describe with an example. (150 Words, 10)
Answer
A conflict of interest is a situation in which a person or organization is involved in multiple interests and serving one interest could involve working against another. The conflict may occur between the personal interest and public interest or between official duties and public interest.
In a democracy, the laws and rules are made by the political executives elected by the people. Hence, a public servant serves the public interest if he works according to the rules. However, sometimes the policies may be made for extraneous consideration and may not be in public interest.
If you are heading a selection board to appoint candidates for the organisation and your relative applies for the job, the conflict of interest situation arises. You must recuse yourself from the selection process and request your superior to appoint someone else in your place.
If you have to implement a scheme or a law, which is not in public interest, you must submit your views in writing to the government to suitably modify the policy. (170 words)