Inspection of records related to the grant of awards to scientists under RTI

Background

The appellant filed a hand written application under Right to Information (RTI) act with Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) seeking inspection of records related to the grant of awards to certain internationally renowned scientists. The Public Information Officer (PIO) informed that DRDO is placed in Second Schedule of RTI Act, 2005 and is exempted from disclosure of information under Section 24 (1) except information pertaining to the allegations of corruptions and human rights violations. PIO further informed that they are unable to comprehend and understand the information required by appellant. He also requested the appellant to write in a crystal clear way about his requirement without hiding it into long sentences so that the application may be considered.

View of CIC

During the hearing, the PIO submitted that he has no objection to give inspection of the relevant records to the appellant despite the fact that DRDO is an exempted organisation. The Central Information Commission (CIC) directed the PIO to give inspection of the relevant recorded to the appellant on a mutually convenient date and time.

Comments

The case demonstrates the transparent working of an organisation which has gone beyond the legal requirement of disclosure and should be applauded.

Citation: Mr. Prakash Singh v. DRDO, in File No.CIC/LS/A/2011/003166