The Central Information Commission (CIC) is a statutory authority in India. It was established to ensure transparency and accountability in public authorities. The CIC operates under the Right to Information Act (RTI) of 2005. The Commission addresses grievances related to information requests from citizens.
Establishment
The CIC was constituted on 12th October 2005. It is not a constitutional body but a statutory one. It was formed through an official notification from the Central Government. The RTI Act provides the framework for its functioning.
Composition
The CIC is headed by the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC). It also includes up to ten Information Commissioners (ICs). Initially, the Commission had five members. The current Chief Information Commissioner is Heeralal Samariya.
Appointment Process
The President of India appoints the CIC and ICs. This is based on recommendations from a selection committee. The committee includes the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a Union Cabinet Minister.
Qualifications
Candidates for the CIC and IC positions must be eminent individuals. They should have expertise in law, social service, management, or journalism. They cannot be sitting Members of Parliament or hold any political affiliations.
Tenure and Service Conditions
The term for the Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners is three years. They can serve until the age of 65, whichever comes first. They are not eligible for reappointment after their term ends. Their salaries and service conditions are determined by the Central Government.
Removal Process
The President can remove the CIC or any IC under specific conditions. This includes insolvency, conviction of a crime, or engaging in paid employment outside their official duties. The President must refer the matter to the Supreme Court for an inquiry before removal.
Functions of the CIC
The CIC plays important role in promoting the right to information. It addresses complaints from individuals who face issues in obtaining information. The Commission investigates complaints regarding:
- Non-receipt of information requests.
- Denial of access to requested information.
- Unreasonable fees charged for information.
- Incomplete or misleading information provided.
Powers of the CIC
The CIC has extensive powers to ensure compliance with the RTI Act. It can initiate inquiries suo motu. The Commission possesses the powers of a civil court, including:
- Summoning individuals to provide evidence.
- Issuing orders to public authorities for information.
- Imposing penalties on Public Information Officers (PIOs).
Reporting Obligations
The CIC is required to submit an annual report to the Government of India. This report details the implementation of the RTI Act. It is then presented to both Houses of Parliament.
Challenges Faced by the CIC
Despite its importance, the CIC encounters several challenges:
- Administrative bottlenecks hinder efficiency.
- Resource limitations affect its operations.
- Low public awareness of RTI rights.
Addressing Challenges
To improve its effectiveness, the CIC must enhance resource allocation. Streamlining processes is essential to reduce delays. Public awareness initiatives can educate citizens about their rights under the RTI Act.
