Disclosure of details under RTI in a case being investigated by CBI

Background

The appellant sought a copy of the letter written by a particular person, details of action taken on this information and corrective measure taken to control the likely corruption. He also wanted to know the Modus Operandi Purchase processing of the case including approval and sanction for the purchases and name of the competent authority who granted sanction for the purchase of the equipment. During the hearing, the Public Information Officer (PIO) submitted that it is a corruption matter and is under investigation with Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a long time. The Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMFR) had also initiated departmental enquiries in the matter and the Head Office is awaiting outcome of the CBI investigation before taking a final decision in the matter. It is because of this reason that information could not be given to the appellant.

View of CIC

The Central Information Commission (CIC) found no reason as to why the name of the competent authority who granted sanction for the purchase of the equipment in question cannot be disclosed to the appellant. The Commission directed the PIO to disclose the name and designation of the competent authority to the appellant.

Citation: Mr. Tribhuwan Nath Singh v. Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CIMER), in File No.CIC/LS/A/2011/003464