
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has affirmed that the Central Information Commission (CIC) has the authority to frame its own rules, form benches, and establish external committees. This ruling enhances the CIC’s autonomy and operational efficiency, ensuring that it can better fulfill its mandate under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
Key Points of the Ruling
- Rule-Making Authority:
The Supreme Court confirmed that the CIC has the power to frame its own rules for effective functioning. This includes procedural rules and guidelines that govern how the commission operates and handles RTI applications. - Formation of Benches:
The CIC can now constitute multiple benches to handle the large volume of cases more efficiently. This will help in expediting the disposal of RTI appeals and complaints, thereby reducing delays and backlogs. - Establishment of External Committees:
The ruling allows the CIC to form external committees comprising experts and stakeholders. These committees can provide specialized input and support on complex issues, enhancing the commission’s decision-making capabilities.
Implications of the Ruling
- Enhanced Efficiency:
By enabling the CIC to frame its own rules and form benches, the Supreme Court’s decision is expected to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the commission. - Increased Autonomy:
The ruling reinforces the CIC’s autonomy, allowing it to operate more independently and make decisions that best suit its operational needs. - Better RTI Implementation:
With the ability to establish external committees, the CIC can draw on external expertise, leading to more informed and robust decisions in RTI matters.
This decision is seen as a significant step towards strengthening the RTI framework in India, promoting greater transparency and accountability in governance.