What to do if the PIO is not sure as to what is sought by the RTI applicant?

Background

The appellant sought information related to the Kumbh Mela in Haridwar. The Public Information Officer (PIO) replied provided point wise reply. During the hearing, the respondent submitted that the appellant has not sought specific information against some points and that the information sought was too general as the appellant had asked for details of all constructions that had been undertaken by the Construction Department over the last 5 years. The appellant explained that he wanted to know about all the constructions undertaken by the Engineering department only. The respondent then assured the appellant that information will be provided to him.

View of CIC

The Central Information Commission (CIC) directed the PIO to provide the available information regarding the constructions undertaken by the Engineering department. The Commission also directed the to allow the appellant to inspect the complete records dealing with the Kumbh Mela 2010 so that he can compile the information required by him.

Comments

If the PIO is not clear as to what is sought under the RTI Act, it would be appropriate to call the applicant for the inspection of the records.

Citation: Mr. Koka Ram v. Northern Railwaly Divisional Railway Manager’s Office, in File No: CIC/AD/C/2012/000055