Career enhancement scores over ethical behaviour in India: EY report

As many as 41 per cent of Indian respondents would be prepared to act unethically to enhance their own career progression or remuneration package, according to a survey released on Thursday.

The survey was conducted by EY's (Ernst & Young) Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services (FIDS) and evaluates the current state of fraud, bribery and corruption in the EMEIA region.

The EY's Europe, Middle East, India and Africa (EMEIA) Fraud Survey said uncertainties in the business environment, increasing pressure to meet financial targets and aspirations to achieve unprecedented career growth are driving employees to justify unethical workplace behaviour.

The India findings of the survey titled 'Human instinct or machine logic - which do you trust most in the fight against fraud and corruption?' said that 44 per cent of the Indian respondents admitted that they would be unlikely to report fraud, bribery and corruption concerns if it could hamper their future career development within the company.

Some 32 per cent considered it acceptable to offer cash payments to win or retain business.

"The perception of fraud and corruption in corporate India has seen a marginal but positive shift, led by amplified regulatory scrutiny and emphasis on transparency and governance. However, unethical behaviour at the workplace, including Gen Y has become a serious cause of concern," said Arpinder Singh, Partner and National Leader, Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services, EY India.

Globally, one in five respondents said they would be prepared to act unethically for their careers.

--IANS

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