In spite of the existence of a Code of Conduct for public servants, its implementation has been tardy and of limited success. Discuss. Further, suggest steps which could be taken to improve the efficacy of the Code of Conduct. What role can Code of Ethics play in reinforcing the Code of Conduct in public life.

e.g. Central Civil Services (conduct) rules 1961.

Inspite of code of conduct, however still public service is blighted as corrupt, slow, delay, low public service orientation, redtape etc.

Reasons for tardy implementation is (a) List of don'ts rather than do's (b) Lack of strong penal provisions if violated (c) Lack effective monitoring and regulation for enforcing code of conduct (d) delay in judicial process, to get conviction in case of gross misuse/abuse of power. (e) Low awareness about code of conduct among officials, citizens

steps to Improve efficacy

(a) make it comprehensive

• add values, code of ethical values ; more of do's than don'ts which public servants should abide by

e.g: compassion, integrity, objectivity, transparency etc

(b) effective penal provisions if violated

(c) strong monitoring and regulation of code of conduct

e.g: Ethics commission in parliament for MPs as suggested by 2nd ARC.

(d) Improving transparency, accountability → RTI, citizen charter and grievance redressal mechanism to report

• awareness about code of conduct.

(e) Judicial reforms to get quick conviction

code of ethics

Public servant life is very complex and challenging. All the situations like disaster management, riots etc and expected behaviour cannot be codified in the code of

Conduct.

In such situations code of ethics reinforces code of conduct for ethical governance.

→ acting on the ethical values of compassion, responsiveness, integrity, perseverance etc will achieve great results in dealing with situations like disasters.