Punjab & Haryana High Court Provides Guidelines to RTI Bodies Due to Increase in Obscure and Inarticulate Decrees
Rajwinder
Vs.
State of Punjab
Date of decision: 16.08.2023
2023:PHHC:105227
CORAM: Hon’ble Mr. Vikas Bahl
FACT:
The person who submitted the petition questioned an obscure and unclear directive issued by the State Information Commission. The individual had initially applied for information on seven different matters under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. As the response received was unsatisfactory, the petitioner escalated the matter through an appeal, which eventually led to the involvement of the State Information Commission. However, the Commission’s verdict lacked transparent justification and did not adequately address the specific areas of disagreement. This deficiency prompted the High Court to step in. Additionally, it was pointed out that the order in question did not specify the details of the requested information. Furthermore, the order did not clarify which points of information were provided and which ones were withheld, along with the rationale for not providing certain information.
COURT ANALYSIS AND DECISION:
The Court highlighted the obligation of quasi-judicial entities, such as the State Information Commission in this instance, to meticulously document the reasons behind their rulings. This transparency not only ensures the delivery of justice but also fosters trust in the legal system by making the process apparent. Furthermore, the Court emphasized that these reasons should be logical, evident, and not merely superficial explanations. Prior legal cases were also discussed by the Court, underscoring the significance of providing reasoning in decision-making. The Court stressed that even if not explicitly required by specific legal provisions, it’s essential to provide explanations that can withstand judicial review. The judgment referenced instances where decisions without proper justification were nullified, and the cases were sent back for reevaluation. In light of this, the Court ruled to invalidate the ruling issued by the second appellate authority and instructed that it be returned to the State Information Commissioner of Punjab. The Commissioner was directed to reevaluate the appeal with a chance for both sides to present their arguments during the process.
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Written by- Srijan Garg