The Complainant has filed a RTI application with the PIO on 25.02.2011 asking for certain information. On not having received any reply from the PIO within the mandated time, he approached the First Appellate Authority (FAA) by filing a First Appeal on 30.03.2011. However, it appears that the FAA has not passed any order and therefore, the Complainant has approached the Commission by filing a Complaint on 18.05.2011 under section 18 of the rti act.
Decision: In view of the aforesaid, the instant matter is now remanded to the FAA. The Commission hereby directs the FAA to decide the matter accordance with the provisions of the RTI Act after perusing the relevant documents and giving all concerned parties an opportunity to be hear While deciding the matter, the FAA is directed to examine whether any information was provided by the PIO within the mandated period and if provided, whether it was complete, relevant and correct. Where the FAA is satisfied that the information provided by the PIO is as per the records, the First Appeal shall be disposed of. The Commission shall be intimated about the same.
In the event, no information has been provided or if there are any deficiencies in the information furnished by the PIO, the FAA shall direct the PIO to provide the complete information in reply to the RTI application dated 25.02.2011 to the Complainant, with a copy to the Commission. Further, the FAA shall also enquire and send an enquiry report to the Commission within 40 days from receipt of this order containing the reasons for not furnishing and/or the delay in furnishing the complete information by the PIO affixing responsibility and identifying the officer(s) so responsible, if any. Furthermore, the FAA shall send written submissions to the Commission within 50 days from receipt of this order explaining why no order was passed with respect to the First Appeal filed by the Complainant.
If the Complainant is not satisfied with the orders of the FAA, he/she will be free to move a Second Appeal before the Commission under Section 19(3) of the RTI Act.
The Complaint is disposed of.
Notice of this decision be given free of cost to the parties.
(Vijai Sharma) Information Commissioner Authenticated true copy.
(V.K. Sharma) Designated Officer Enclosed: Copy of Complaint received on 18.05.2011; Copy of First Appeal dated 30.03.2011; and Copy of RTI application dated 25.02.2011.