News: The Central Information Commission has reached its full sanctioned strength of 11 members for the first time in seven years following the appointment of IAS officer Raj Kumar Goyal as the Chief Information Commissioner.
About Central Information Commission (CIC)
- The Central Information Commission was constituted on 12 October 2005.
- It functions as a statutory body under the Right to Information Act, 2005.
- Its jurisdiction extends to all Central Public Authorities.
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- The Commission exercises powers under Sections 18, 19, 20, and 25 of the Act.
- Functions: It includes adjudicating second appeals, directing record management and suo motu disclosures, inquiring into RTI-related complaints, imposing penalties, and monitoring implementation through the preparation of an Annual Report.
- The decisions of the Commission are final and binding.
- Composition of Central Information Commission (CIC): It consists of a Chief Information Commissioner and not more than ten Information Commissioners.
- They are appointed by the President on the recommendation of a selection Committee consisting of: Prime Minister of India, a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
- Chief Information Commissioner: The Chief Information Commissioner is the head of the Central Information Commission of India.
- Role and Functions of CIC: CIC hears second and subsequent appeals filed by citizens when information is denied by public authorities.
- The CIC is responsible for adjudicating complaints related to violations of the Right to Information Act.
- Tenure and Service Conditions: The Chief Information Commissioner holds office until attaining the age of 65 years or for the term prescribed under law, whichever is earlier.
