The Call of Duty: More Than a Job...

 Role of Public Servants: A Call to Duty, Beyond the Clock

By Dr Sunil S Rana 

(Managing Director,  The  Lexà, a Law Firm)

Public service is not merely a profession; it is a solemn commitment to society and humanity. Doctors, Police officers, and Advocates are the pillars of a functioning society, entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring health, safety, and justice. When emergencies arise, they are expected to rise above personal comfort and attend to their duties, for public service does not run on the clock. This article explores the profound responsibility of public servants, emphasizing the necessity for their accessibility, readiness, and sense of duty at all times, supported by examples, quotations, idioms, and judicial observations.

The Call of Duty: More Than a Job

Public servants are bound by their roles to prioritize the well-being of the people they serve. When a doctor turns off their phone during an emergency, or a police officer becomes inaccessible, lives and justice are placed at risk. This breach of duty contradicts the essence of their professions. The Supreme Court of India, in Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity v. State of West Bengal (1996), observed:

"The government is obligated to provide timely medical aid to every citizen to preserve the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution."

This principle underscores that public servants, especially in critical roles, must prioritize their duty over convenience.

Doctors: Guardians of Life

The Hippocratic Oath, taken by doctors worldwide, enshrines their moral and professional obligation to save lives under any circumstances. Emergencies seldom respect time; whether it is midnight or during a festive celebration, a doctor's responsibility is to answer the call. As Mahatma Gandhi aptly said:

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."

Take the case of Dr. Sanduk Ruit from Nepal, who revolutionized cataract surgery by developing affordable methods and dedicating himself to treating thousands of impoverished patients. His unwavering dedication exemplifies the spirit of medical service.

Doctors are often referred to as "God's hands on Earth," but this title is earned through relentless dedication, empathy, and readiness to act. A life saved during a medical emergency is a testament to their commitment, while a life lost due to negligence tarnishes the sanctity of their profession.

Police Officers: The Shield of Society

Police officers symbolize law and order, ensuring public safety and peace. Their duty demands vigilance and availability round the clock. Emergencies, crimes, and disasters cannot wait for convenient hours. As the saying goes:

"Justice delayed is justice denied."

Consider the valor of IPS officer Hemant Karkare, who laid down his life during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. His commitment to duty, even in the face of mortal danger, showcases the selflessness expected of police personnel.

Yet, there are instances where the inaccessibility of police officers during emergencies leads to public unrest. When a victim of domestic violence finds the police station locked or a citizen in distress cannot reach law enforcement, the trust in the system erodes. Public servants in uniform must remember their oath: to protect and serve.

Advocates: Voices of Justice

Advocates play a crucial role in upholding the principles of justice. As officers of the court, they are duty-bound to assist clients, especially during critical times. The legal profession is not a 9-to-5 job; it is a relentless pursuit of justice. Eminent jurist Nani Palkhivala once remarked:

"A lawyer's duty is not merely to plead for his client but also to ensure that justice prevails."

Consider the landmark case of Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973), where advocates worked tirelessly to protect the basic structure of the Constitution. Their commitment ensured a verdict that continues to safeguard democracy. Advocates who remain inaccessible or indifferent during crises betray not only their clients but also the justice system.

The Moral Imperative of Accessibility

Public servants cannot afford to be unreachable, for emergencies demand immediate action. As John Stuart Mill noted:

"A person may cause evil to others not only by his actions but by his inaction."

A switched-off phone or an unanswered call can cost lives, justice, or peace. Society relies on public servants to be the first responders, the problem solvers, and the anchors in crises.

Quotations and Idioms to Reflect Upon

"The price of greatness is responsibility." – Winston Churchill

"Time and tide wait for no man." – Proverb

"A stitch in time saves nine." – Proverb

"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth." – Muhammad Ali.

Supreme Court Observations on Public Duty

The judiciary has repeatedly emphasized the importance of timely action by public servants. In Paramvir Singh Saini v. Baljit Singh (2020), the Supreme Court directed the installation of CCTVs in police stations to ensure accountability and prevent inaccessibility.

Similarly, in Indian Medical Association v. V.P. Shantha (1995), the court highlighted that doctors must not delay treatment due to procedural formalities, reiterating that the right to health is intrinsic to the right to life.

Examples of Inspiration

1. Dr. Devi Shetty: A cardiac surgeon who made healthcare accessible to the poor, demonstrating that dedication transcends personal gain.

2. Kiran Bedi: India’s first female IPS officer, known for her reforms and round-the-clock dedication to public welfare.

3. Fali Nariman: An advocate whose commitment to justice has inspired generations of lawyers.

The Need for Empathy and Dedication

Public servants must recognize that their professions are rooted in empathy. As the idiom goes, "Walk a mile in someone else's shoes." Understanding the plight of those in distress fosters a sense of urgency and responsibility.

Challenges and the Way Forward

While public servants face personal challenges, including mental fatigue and work-life balance, their roles demand resilience and prioritization of public welfare. Measures such as rotational shifts, mental health support, and acknowledgment of their efforts can motivate them to remain steadfast in their duties.

Conclusion: Living the Promise of Service

Public servants are the lifelines of society, entrusted with safeguarding life, liberty, and justice. Their roles demand readiness, accessibility, and unwavering commitment. As Swami Vivekananda said:

"Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached."

This principle applies to all public servants, reminding them of their noble mission. Emergencies do not wait, and neither should the guardians of society. By embracing their responsibilities with dedication, public servants not only fulfill their professional duties but also leave an indelible mark on humanity.

A society thrives when its public servants remain true to their oaths. Let us honor their sacrifices while expecting them to uphold the highest standards of service, ensuring that help is always within reach, regardless of the hour.