Q. One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real-life example. (150 words, 10 Marks)

Answer:

Approach:

  • Introduction: Definition of integrity.
  • Body: 
    1. Mention the lifetime example to substantiate the statement.
    2. Add some more examples for substantiation.
  • Conclusion: Conclude with the importance or significance of integrity. 

Introduction:

Integrity is the quality of being honest, ethical, and morally upright. A person of integrity is one who adheres to their principles and values, even in the face of adversity or temptation. 

One of the tests of integrity is the complete refusal to be compromised, which means that a person with integrity will not compromise their principles or values for personal gain or convenience, even if it means facing negative consequences.

Body:

  • A real-life example of this can be seen in the case of Satyendra Dubey, an Indian engineer who was working as a project director in the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). 
  • In 2002, Mr. Dubey had raised concerns about corruption and mismanagement in the construction of a highway project in Bihar. He had written letters to several high-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister’s Office, exposing the irregularities in the project and requesting an investigation.
  • However, instead of being commended for his bravery, Dubey was met with retaliation from the contractors and local politicians involved in the project. 
  • On November 27, 2003, Dubey was shot dead by unidentified assailants while he was returning from work.
  • Satyendra Dubey’s refusal to compromise his integrity and his commitment to exposing corruption ultimately cost him his life. However, his sacrifice brought attention to the issue of corruption in India and inspired many others to come forward and speak out against it. 
  • In 2004, the Indian government passed the Whistle-blowers Protection Act to protect whistle-blowers like Dubey who speak out against corruption and malpractice.
  • Satyendra Dubey’s case serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity in public life and the need to protect those who uphold it. 
  • It also highlights the need for a strong legal framework to protect whistle-blowers and encourage more people to come forward and expose corruption and malpractice.

Few more examples:

  • Rosa Parks, an American civil rights activist, who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white person, despite the segregation laws of the time.
  • Edward Snowden, an American computer programmer who leaked classified information from the National Security Agency (NSA) in 2013, exposing the extent of government surveillance programs.
  • Anna Hazare, an Indian social activist, who went on a hunger strike in 2011 to protest against corruption in the Indian government and to demand the enactment of the Lokpal Bill, which aimed to create an independent ombudsman to investigate corruption.

Conclusion:

In all these cases, the individuals refused to compromise their principles or values, even when it meant facing negative consequences. Their actions brought attention to important social issues and inspired others to speak out against injustice and corruption.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
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Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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