RTI - Auction report of valuable properties sold by the Central government

Background

The appellant referred to the auction sale of valuable properties held by the Central government under IT Act, 1961 and sought information regarding an auction such as, the copies of letter of possession, auction report and order under section 269UD(1) through an application filed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. He also asked for inspection of files related to the said auction. The Public Information Officer (PIO) provided part information and denied the inspection of files stating that the files contain department’s internal correspondence, important notings, judicial matters etc. He was willing to provide copies of specific documents.

Proceedings

During the hearing, the appellant submitted that he wanted the copy of the letter of possession. The First Appellate Authority (FAA) submitted that the copy of letter of possession is not available on their records and hence they are unable to provide a certified copy it.

View of CIC

The Central Information Commission (CIC) accepted the submissions made by the PIO and FAA. The Commission rejected the appeal observing that the available information sought by the appellant has been provided.

Citation: Mr. Murli Govindan Kurup v. Income Tax Department in File No.CIC/DS/A/2011/001802/RM