The CoC and CoE are complementary approaches to ensuring institutional integrity. While Conduct Rules are primarily “negative” in nature (what not to do), Code of Ethics is a “positive” statement of values that inspires a civil servant to do the “right thing”.
Code of conduct and code of ethics as source of guidance
A Suitable Model for Code of Ethics
Core Philosophical Values
Constitutional Morality- Prioritizing the spirit of the Constitution over individual interests.
Decisions must be tested against the “Gandhian Talisman”– how does it help the weakest?
Selflessness- Acting solely in public interest, without seeking any benefits for oneself.
Probity and Integrity- Eg- Singapore Civil Service zero-tolerance ethics policy.
Objectivity- Making choices on merit alone.
Confidentiality with Responsibility. Eg- EU data ethics norms.
Operational and Institutional Safeguards
Adherence to Gandhian Talisman and principle of Utilitarianism in decision making
Citizen Feedback on Ethics. Eg- Estonia e-governance feedback tools.
Ethical Infrastructure- Ethics Commissioner to provide guidance on dilemmas.
Reflective Practice- Mandatory “Ethics Audits”. Eg- ISO 37001 anti-bribery certification.
Protection of Dissent- “whistleblowing” should be seen as a duty, not an act of disloyalty.
Conflict of Interest Registers to prevent actual, perceived or potential CoI.
Enact a Civil Services Bill- Legally formalize the Code of Ethics ( 2nd ARC).
Mission Karmayogi- Use AI and case-study-based modules to train officials in “Moral Reasoning.”
Display the Code of Ethics in all public offices to ensure public accountability
Annual Ethics Declaration. Eg- US Office of Government Ethics disclosures.
Ensuring transparency through proactive disclosure under Section 4 of RTI
Asopting “A-S-P” Model for integrity management)
Aspiration (Values)- Eg- Johnson & Johnson’s “Credo”– customer as first responsibility
Strictness (Compliance)- Eg- U.S. Office of Government Ethics provides clear interpretations of complex ethical dilemmas.
Participation- Employees help draft the values. Eg- Adobe’s participative culture.
By synthesizing Nolan Principles with Indian Constitutional values, we can transform the “Steel Frame” into a compassionate instrument of public service.