Can an adopted child seek the details of deceased father’s records?

Background

The appellant sought the some information about a deceased employee of the Postal Department which was denied by the Public Information Officer (PIO). The First Appellate Authority also upheld the decision of the PIO.

View of the CIC

During the hearing, the appellant claimed to be the sole adopted son of deceased employee and disputed the change of nomination purported to have been made by his late adoptive father in the official records. The Commission observed that by collecting this information, the appellant wishes to stake his claim to the legacy of his alleged adoptive father. The Commission observed that such matters are better settled through the courts and RTI is not the proper route in these matters. However, the Commission directed the PIO to provide the details subject to the production of proof by the appellant as the adoptive son of the deceased employee.

Comments

In cases of deceased employees, the Commission has permitted disclosure of information to the legal heir.

Citation: Shri Chandansingh Somsingh Rathod v. Dept.of Posts in file no. CIC/LS/A/2011/001456