2017 Mock Test 8: GS-IV: Ethics and Integrity Case Study – 5

The first option is the most ethical option, but the problem with this option is that the goal and purpose of the officer will not be solved. The officer believes that he can serve as a software engineer much better than in a non-technical position in the army. He also believes that he deserves better salary for his skills and further that he will tend to lose substantially in the next ten years, if doesn’t get the job of his choice.
The problem with the second option is that it is highly unethical. The approach could land him as well as the doctor with severe consequences, if caught. Although getting caught is a low possibility because the medical doctors recommendation may not be challenged. However, there is also a possibility that his CO orders for the recommendation by a medical board and not a single doctor.
The third option is also an ethical option but the demerit of this option is that he may not be able to leave the nation till the litigation goes on, while the fourth option is absolutely unethical and has no merits at all except that the officer might fulfil his goal through unscrupulous method, but his past will always be with him, haunting for life. He may not be able to come to India for ever and if he ever came, he will have to adopt unethical means so that the law does not catch up with him.
In my opinion, Major Sunil Kumar should send in his resignation letter, clearly and truthfully stating his ground. If his request is turned down, he can go in for litigation. If he loses the case in litigation, he can go in for appeal. He may then pursue his case in a civilian court, if the military court declines his request. This is the recommended option for Major Sunil Kumar because, if he believes he is right, he has every right to fight his case until all the options are exhausted. However, one huge demerit of this case is that he may have to remain in India for the duration of the case. The other options are also unethical. Alternatively, if he believes his case is ethical and has to do with his freedom to choose his career, he should pay back the all the cost of his training as stipulated in the rules. He may not have the means, but his PF and loan could possibly match up with the required amount.