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Source: TOI
What is the news?
In a landmark order in a case, the state information commission (SIC) Haryana has made it clear that no authority in the state can force an RTI applicant to apply in a particular format or submit identity proof with the application.
Background
As per the case, an advocate had filed an RTI before a block development and Panchayat officer (BDPO) in Haryana to know about the funds given to different institutions by the office for construction purposes.
He was denied the requisite information while informing that the state government has made an amendment in the Haryana Right to Information Rules, which stipulates that an applicant seeking information under the Act is required to file the RTI in Model Form A, along with an identity card issued by the government.
What did the commission say?
As per the commission:
- The RTI Act, 2005 is the central Act and Section 6 (2) of the same allows an applicant to conceal his identity and to seek information without giving any reason.
- An applicant making a request for information shall not be required to give any reason for requesting the information or any other personal details except those that may be necessary for contacting him.
The commission directed the public information officer to supply complete information to the applicant free of cost.
Terms to know:
