Mr. Gopal Mahto is the sitting Chief Minister of one of the most populous states in India. He is a young and dynamic leader, popular not just in his state but across the country. Many political analysts opine that he has the potential to become Prime Minister of India in future. One day, the CM was taking a review meeting of law-and-order situation in the state, with senior officials in the state capital. Suddenly he felt a light pain in his abdomen. The CM had been feeling such bouts of pain since a long time, but like always he neglected it this time too, and continued with the meeting. However, in the next few weeks, the intensity of pain increased and the CM was forced to see a doctor. After initial examination, the doctor gave some medicines and prescribed few tests. After few days, the report came and it showed that the CM is suffering from 'Liver Cirrhosis.' It was in the advanced stage and posed a threat to the life of Mr. Mahto. The doctor told that the only option was the liver transplant without any further delay. In apprehension that it may create chaos among the general public, particularly the supporters of the CM and his party, it was decided to not make the news public. Only very few senior functionaries at the centre and state along with medical staff were aware of the situation. Meanwhile, the Health Minister of the State directed the State's Health Secretary to take necessary actions, coordinate with medical staff and arrange for liver transplant for the CM. The next day, the Health Secretary called the State Director General (DG), Health, who is the competent authority, dealing with the matters related to organ transplantation in the state. The DG, Renuka was informed of the situation and directed to make immediate arrangement for liver transplant. However, Renuka told the Secretary that there is a laid down Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) regarding organ transplantation. She informed him that there is already a patient named Sunil at first position in the waiting list, who also requires urgent liver transplant. The health secretary is also informed that Sunil is left with a very short time window for a successful transplantation. Sunil is 35 years old, a father of two, and the sole bread winner of the family of six that also includes his wife and aging parents. Sunil's family is of limited means and often found it rather difficult to cater even for their needs. Also, various medical costs associated with Sunil's conditions have further worsened the financial condition of the family. Renuka further informs the secretary, as per SOP, the CM would be at the second position in the waiting list. As a matter of chance, Renuka receives a phone call from one of her subordinates. She informs Renuka that a liver has been donated by family of an old person, who died his natural death. After relevant tests, it was found that the available liver is fit for Sunil. Incidentally, the liver also fits the medical profile of the CM. Renuka immediately intimates the secretary about this development. Even though all the facts with regard to the SOP are explicitly clear, the secretary still tries to persuade Renuka for bending the rule in favor of Mr. Gopal Mahto. He explains that if anything untoward happens to the CM, it may lead to chaos and instability in the State. It may also require fresh elections which will be a drain on state exchequer and a drag on the governance process. He also hinted that if Renuka 'bent' the rule, this will be favorable for her career growth in the future. Further, to ease Renuka's conscience, the health secretary assured her that her actions are in larger interest of the state as well as the country. He also reasoned that if Sunil fails to receive a healthy liver in time, he will personally ensure that Sunil's family is well taken care of, and an eligible member of his family is accorded with a government job. Meanwhile, the time is running out for both Sunil and the CM. a) What are the ethical concerns associated with the above case study? b) What are the options available with Renuka? Analyse the merits and demerits of the options? c) If you were at the place of Renuka, which option would you choose and why?

Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022

Syllabus: Case Studies on above issues.