Should a PIO accept an application filed by a director on behalf of a company? Or can an individual file an application on behalf of an association? The right to file an application under the Act is available to a citizen and not a legal entity. However, a liberal view should be taken and the application should not be rejected merely on this technical ground. The beneficial provisions of the RTI Act should not be denied on account of a restricted interpretation of the definition of the term ‘Citizen’. Wherever a specific citizen can be identified (i.e the name of the individual filing an application is obvious from the application), the information should be supplied irrespective of whether the individual has signed on behalf of an organisation, firm or an association. An application from an Association / Partnership Firm / HUF / group of individuals constituted as a body or otherwise should be accepted. |