Q. Santosh Panigrahi, a computer specialist and former CIA official, disclosed classified Government documents to the media regarding the existence of Government surveillance programs. Many legal experts and the Government contend that his actions breached the Intelligence Act, which considers the revelation of State secrets as an act of disloyalty. Despite breaking the law, Santosh claimed he had a moral obligation to take action. He justified his ‘whistle blowing’ by asserting that he had a responsibility “to inform the public about what is done in their name and against them.” He maintained that the Government’s infringement on privacy needed to be revealed, irrespective of legality, because more significant matters of social action and public ethics were at stake. While many supported Santosh Panigrahi some argued that he violated the law and jeopardized national security. Based on the story, what is your opinion on Santosh Panigrahi’s action in terms of ethicality despite legal prohibition? Give your argument by weighing the competing values in this case.
Ans: Santosh Panigrahi’s decision to disclose classified surveillance information presents a classic conflict between legality and morality. While his action violated the Intelligence Act, it may still be seen as ethically motivated, rooted in a belief that citizen rights and transparency outweigh institutional secrecy.
Competing Values Involved
- Legality and National Security
- Protection of classified information is essential to maintain state security and operational integrity.
- Unauthorized disclosures can jeopardize intelligence methods, diplomatic relations, and national interests.
- Upholding the law ensures rule-based governance and institutional credibility.
- Ethical Responsibility and Public Interest
- Santosh believed in the moral imperative to expose systemic privacy violations.
- His act can be interpreted as civil disobedience—breaking the law to uphold higher ethical values.
- In a democracy, informed citizens are essential for accountability and public discourse.
Ethical Evaluation
- His action aligns with whistleblower ethics, defending the right to know and protecting civil liberties.
- However, ethicality depends on intent, proportionality, and the absence of personal gain.
- If the disclosure was targeted, non-malicious, and sought constructive reform, it enhances his moral standing.
In conclusion, Santosh’s actions, though legally impermissible, may be viewed as ethically justifiable if driven by public conscience, truth, and democratic values. The dilemma underscores the need for robust whistleblower protections and clear boundaries between state secrecy and citizen rights.
Read: OPSC Notes