DoPT to challenge inclusion of RTI applicant as a consumer
21 Feb, 2013The Revision Petition RP/3146/2012 is to be heard by National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (NCDRC) on 21-02-2013 where the main issue is - Whether an applicant under the Right to Information (RTI) is a Consumer and whether the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) is an additional remedy.
State Information Commission Punjab has already been decided in its full bench meeting in last year to challenge such issue in higher constitutional Courts. The Karnataka Information Commission had earlier adviced the Karnataka Consumer Commission to issue a circular to all DCDRF in the state not to entertain any complaints in RTI matters.
Now, the Union of India through Under Secretary of DoPT has sent a request to NCDRC to permit to be included as a respondent and to file a brief reply on RTI matter. The DoPT has taken a view that additional remedy under the CPA cannot apply on RTI Issues. RTI and social activists have opposed the move include DoPT as a respondents. They have demanded that if NCDRC allows inclusion of DoPT, then even the Department of Consumer Affairs of the Government of India should also be included as a respondent to clarify and file brief reply on consumer protection.
Mr. Sanjay Mishra (91-8427841135), Surendra (91-9888810811) and Mr. Bali (91-9417010035) are going to oppose the pleas of DoPT.