In one of the government primary schools located in a rural block of a district, the newly appointed headmistress observed an unusual practice. The school had been preparing and serving mid-day meals separately to students belonging to different communities. Although the meals were cooked using a common gas oven, cooks and serving arrangements had been in place for more than two decades. Students from the two communities had cooked and eaten by different cooks and ate in separate classrooms, despite attending classes together. After raising charge, the headmistress decided to discontinue this practice. She directed that food be prepared and served together for all students, using a common kitchen and utensils. However, the decision triggered backlash. A considerable number of parents across communities vehemently opposed the move and stopped sending their children to school. Consequently, attendance fell by almost 60 percent. This also raised concerns regarding the possible discrimination of the mid-day school, with teaching staff, and even closure of the school due to failing enrolment. The issue has attracted attention from activist civil society groups attempting to further polarize the situation and serve their vested interests. Marni Devi, the District Education Officer (DEO), has been tasked by the Deputy Commissioner's office to amicably resolve the matter at the earliest. She has also been directed to submit a detailed report along with the Action Taken Report within a fortnight. a) Identify the ethical issues involved in this case. b) What course of action should Marni adopt and why? c) What should be the responsibilities of different social segments and agencies to create positive social ambiance for accepting such changes?