2017 · GS Paper 4 · Q4(a) · 10 marks
One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real life example.
In short
Complete refusal to be compromised means integrity that holds against every bribe, threat and pressure, firm on ends though flexible on means. Satyendra Dubey reported Golden Quadrilateral corruption to the Prime Minister's Office in 2002 and was murdered in 2003, prompting whistle-blower protection laws.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 269 words
No price, no exception
Honesty that yields to a big enough bribe or a powerful caller is only conditional; integrity holds across every offer and pressure.
Firm on ends, flexible on means
Methods and timelines may be negotiated, but never the legality or public purpose of a decision.
Refusing the first step
Small favours snowball through ethical slippage, so refusal must begin with the first gift or unfair file, as the "absolute integrity" of Rule 3(1) of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968 demands.
The pressure
Dubey, an Indian Engineering Service officer with the NHAI, found contractors on the Golden Quadrilateral subletting work and laying substandard roads.
The refusal
He acted against the defaulters and in 2002 wrote to the Prime Minister's Office about the corruption, seeking anonymity.
The cost and legacy
His name leaked and he was murdered in Gaya in November 2003; the outrage led to the 2004 Public Interest Disclosure resolution and the Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014.
This model answer is indicative and the model can make mistakes; please verify key facts independently.
Practise this question
1Get the answer sheet
Sized for this question.
2Write your answer
Timed, by hand.
3Get it marked
Your score and what to fix.
This chapter in the exam
Integrity5 questions
Asked in 5 of 14 sittings since 2013
- 2021"Integrity is a value that empowers the human being." Justify with suitable illustration.
- 2018State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance.
All 5 questions, sorted by sub-topic, with model answers and practice.
Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2017 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.