Exemptions in RTI Act should not shadow the right itself: CIC on denials without adequate reasons

NEW DELHI: (Apr 8) The Central Information Commission (CIC) has voiced concern that "some public authorities continue to deny information without adequate reasons", and asserted that merely citing exemption clauses in the RTI Act is insufficient.

The CIC emphasised that exemptions should not be interpreted in a way that would "shadow the very right itself".

Highlighting the importance of reasoned decision-making, the CIC, which serves as the highest adjudicating body for RTI-related complaints and appeals under the transparency law, stated that it is the responsibility of public authorities to justify any denial of information, and that merely citing exemption clauses is insufficient.