Day 37 – Q 3.Differentiate between the terms ‘objectivity’ and ‘neutrality’ with the help of suitable examples. Also explain their significance for a public servant.
3. Differentiate between the terms ‘objectivity’ and ‘neutrality’ with the help of suitable examples. Also explain their significance for a public servant.
उपयुक्त उदाहरणों की सहायता से ‘निष्पक्षता’ और ‘तटस्थता’ शब्दों के बीच अंतर करें। एक लोक सेवक के लिए उनके महत्व को भी समझाएं।
Introduction:
Objectivity refers to basing our advice and decisions on rigorous analysis of evidence. Whereas, Neutrality means decisions that are not based on basis of bias, prejudice or preferring the benefit to one person over another for improper reasons. Both Objectivity and Neutrality are part of foundational value of civil services (as mentioned by 2nd ARC) and are necessary for promoting equality in society.
Body
| Objectivity | Neutrality |
| 1. Decisions are based on strong evidence and do not have political biases. | 1. Decisions sometimes might not be based on evidence but based on political executive order (Passive Neutrality). |
| 2. Helps maintain equity and inclusivity. | 2. Sometimes, may have to follow/implement appeasement policies of government, despite knowing it. Ex– Implementing the reservation policies that are aimed at particular section of people. |
| 3. Will instill confidence in public and ensure their support for future activities (public cooperation). | 3. Particular section of people might not approach public servant (if facing issues due to present day government policies). |
| 4. Policies that address larger sections of people would be implemented efficiently, irrespective of the government of the day. | 4. The policies of previous government, might find a backseat. Ex– the decrease in budget allocations for previous government schemes. |
| 5. Sometimes, civil servant might not agree with government of the day and this leads to poor implementation of policies and wastage of resources. | 5. The durability of the public servant will ensure effective implementation of public policies. |
Significance of objectivity for a public servant:
- Civil servants take decisions on the merit of the case and take account of expert and Professional advice.
- Provide information and advice including the advice to ministers on the basis of evidence and accurately present opinions and facts.
- Decisions based on merits and facts lead to an impartial decision making.
- This would ensure efficient use of resources and enhance the transparency in public domain.
Significance of Neutrality for a public servant:
- Provides professionalism and permanence as opposed to reluctance to change.
- It assures the public that their current aspirations will be faithfully served by the Government.
- The elected ministers are assured of loyalty of the civil servants.
- The officers themselves enjoy high morale since they believe they will be rewarded for their merit and not for their political considerations.
- To offer free and frank advice on policy matters using the powers of delegated legislation to ensure optimal utilisation of resources.
Conclusion
The values of objectivity and neutrality are complementary to each other. They ensure effective implementation of public policies in line with the government’s mandate “Sabka sath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas”.
