Appellant asked for the copy of utilization certificate regarding amount released to Darbhanga Medical College by the GoI - Upon a query, the PIO stated that the information could not be furnished earlier for want of proper fee - CIC: Furnish information
5 May, 2017
Information sought and background of the case:
Vide RTI application dated, the appellant sought information following information.
1. How much amount has been released to Darbhanga Medical College by the Govt. of Indi?
2. How much amount has been utilized by Darbhanga Medical College?
3. A copy of utilization certificate submitted by the Medical College.
The CPIO vide letter dated 27.10.2014 returned the RTI application to appellant with the remarks
“…….that IPO is in favour of Public Information Officer, MOHFW, Nirman Bhavan, New Delhi whereas it should be in favour of Account Officer, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.”
Dissatisfied with response received from CPIO, the appellant filed first appeal. The FAA did not adjudicate the matter.
Feeling aggrieved, the appellant approached the Commission.
Relevant facts emerging during hearing:
Both parties are present and heard.
At the outset, the CPIO states that the first appeal of the appellant was not received by the first appellate authority.
In the course of hearing, the respondents have placed on record the copy of information/ document which are to be furnished to the appellant. Upon a query by the Commission, the CPIO states that the information could not be furnished earlier for want of proper fee. It is informed by the CPIO that an amount of Rs. 2.66 Cr was released in favour of Darbhanga Medical College in year 2011-12 out of which an amount of Rs. 2.64 Cr. Has been utilized by the State Govt.
Decision:
After hearing parties and perusal of record, the Commission directs the CPIO to furnish complete information on all points to the appellant with 2 weeks of receipt of this order. The appellant shall be entitled to receive information free of cost.
The appeal is allowed accordingly.
(Yashovardhan Azad)
Information Commissioner
Citation: Mr. Gajendra Jha v. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in F. No.CIC/YA/A/2016/001120 Date of Decision: 27.04.2017