2010 (5) TMI 722 - AT - Indian Laws

Summary

Issues involved: Compliance with RTI application regarding information availability on website, disciplinary action details, vacancy position details.

Compliance with RTI Application:
The Appellate Tribunal CESTAT NEW DELHI addressed the issues raised in the RTI application by the Appellant. The CPIO acknowledged that information regarding Item No. 4(A) was available on the website, eliminating the need for a separate request. However, information on disciplinary action under para 4(B) was not provided earlier due to difficulties in retrieval, but it can be made available as per records. The CPIO also noted that details on the vacancy position under para 4(C) were not initially provided but can be furnished upon request.

Information Disclosure Process:
The CPIO explained that there was a time gap in responding to para 4(A) of the RTI application, with the information eventually provided in compliance with ID (No. 254/2009). Regarding para 4(B), the CPIO highlighted the challenge of compiling information from various personal files but assured that specific details could be provided if available in the concerned file and permitted by law. For para 4(C), the CPIO confirmed that the list of vacancies had already been shared with the Appellant.

Registrar's Action Plan:
To streamline information dissemination and address the information needs highlighted in para 4(B), the Registrar of the Tribunal proposed maintaining three separate registers. These registers would record memos issued, complaints against employees, and vigilance actions initiated against employees with detailed information. The Tribunal emphasized the importance of maintaining these registers for the benefit of the office and public interest. The Registrar was tasked with overseeing the maintenance of these registers from 1-4-2010 onwards, ensuring transparency and accessibility of information for future reference.

Conclusion:
In light of the practical difficulties expressed by the CPIO and the proposed measures to enhance information management, the RTI appeal was disposed of. The Tribunal's observation and suggestion regarding the maintenance of registers aimed to improve compliance with RTI requests and facilitate efficient access to relevant information.