January 13th, 2025 – GS4

You are an employee of an MNC. Your finances are in precarious condition with your mother  admitted in a hospital and two school going children. One day, you read media reports that your friend Ramesh, cleared the Civil services and was allotted IAS service. 

You remembered that many years back when you were at work, Ramesh called in distress to meet you. Upon meeting he told you that his attempts at UPSC Civil services preparation were over and he was tense because of that.

Being amazed by the news, you tried to figure out how Ramesh was able to clear the exam despite exhausting his attempts. For this, you investigated at your own level. After some research you came to know that he forged his identity papers, address proofs and other documents to take OBC reservation and made a false PwBD certificate from a doctor known to him. 

You, being close to Ramesh, also know that he is neither an OBC nor a disabled person. You called Ramesh and asked him to be truthful and declare his wrongdoings. On this Ramesh offered you a well furnished flat in one of the reputed colonies of Pune along with the hospital bills of your mother being covered, if you do not disclose the case to any one.

1. Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case.

2. Evaluate the options available to you in the above situation.

3. Which of the above will be most appropriate for you to take and why?