The definition of moral transgression varies from place to place. Recently, a leaked video of the DC of Jamalpur, Ahmed Kabir, who is currently placed in Officer of Special Duty, OSD, has brought the issue out in the front.
Specialists are saying that any act that contravenes the social definition of ethical behaviour is deemed a moral transgression.
In terming an episode moral transgression, specialists will take into consideration two issues: 1. If the event has hurt social values or not and 2. Was there any criminal motive involved or not.
As per government act, 2018, unethical behaviour constitutes any act which is incongruous to discipline and employment code.
The acts mention, insubordination, negligence in duty, disregarding government directives, harassing others, bringing false accusation against others etc.
But constitution specialist Mahmudul Islam feels that moral transgression must have the element of depravity.
Cabinet secretary, Ali Imam Mazumdar, adds: “Any act below the accepted moral standards of society can be called a transgression.”
There is a clear guideline which states what is and isn’t allowed for government officials, he said adding: “There is punishment for those who disregard the laws.”
Senior lawyer of supreme-court, Zainul Abedin, says: “If a judge fails to protect the constitution and demands anything unlawful then that is moral transgression.”
Badiul Alam from good governance platform says, transgressions need to be judged from social angles though an act which is a transgression in one society may not be deemed unethical in another.
But for professionals there is a code of conduct which they need to adhere to, he stated.