“Public office is a public trust.” – Grover Cleveland
Public life refers to the activities and roles individuals undertake in the service of the community, whether as elected representatives, civil servants, or members of public bodies.
Basic principles of public life
Nolan Principles
Selflessness
Integrity
Objectivity
Openness
Leadership
Accountability
Honesty
Leadership
Indian constitutional ethos
Transparency
Impartiality
Responsiveness
Commitment to public interest
Three basic values and their importance
Integrity (Honesty and probity in conduct) – Acting truthfully, transparently and consistently with moral and legal standards.
Importance-
Prevents corruption and misuse of public office.
Builds citizensâ trust in institutions.
Protects fairness in decision-making.
Strengthens legitimacy of the state.
Illustration- Sanjiv Chaturvedi (IFS) exposed corruption in AIIMS despite facing harassment.
Impartiality (Fairness and non-discrimination) – Treating all individuals and groups equally, without bias based on identity, status or political affiliation.
Importance-
Upholds equality before law.
Prevents favouritism and discrimination.
Stability during Political Transitions
Impartial officer acts as a trusted mediator in conflict resolution
Illustration- T.N. Seshan, as CEC, enforcing MCC in fair manner.
Accountability – Being answerable for decisions and taking responsibility for consequences.
Importance-
Feedback Loop- facilitates a two-way communication between state and citizens
Improves transparency and performance.
Enables democratic control over bureaucracy.
Promotes ethical and careful decision-making.
Illustration – Ashwini Vaishnaw took moral responsibility after the Odisha train accident by personally overseeing relief and restoration.
These values ensure that “Steel Frame” does not rust or bend under the weight of corruption and bias.