CIC verdict on corruption-related information from CBI stayed by Delhi High Court?

20 February, 2013

It refers to the stay order granted by a single-bench of Delhi High Court against CIC verdict directing CBI to disclose information on corruption-related issues which were being handled by CBI now exempted from RTI Act except aspects relating to corruption and human-rights violation.

Desired information has been already provided by government in Parliament, and RTI Act is clear that information given to Parliament will be provided under RTI Act.

Since similar case has already been finally decided on 06.04.2011 by a Division Bench of Madras High Court, stay-order from a single-bench of Delhi high Court should be vacated because Central Information Commission has all-India jurisdiction.

Liberal stay orders from courts against CIC verdicts deprive people from their constitutional right of being informed citizenry when public-authorities linger on cases for years after getting ex-party stay-orders. Even a Division Bench of Supreme Court has rightly expressed concern on parties seeking ex-party stay-orders never turning for progress of the case with even ultimately losing the case. ‘Information delayed is information denied.

Delhi High Court where most petitions against CIC verdicts are filed should take steps for earliest disposal of such cases by having first Monday on which concerned bench may take petitions against CIC-verdicts on priority with maximum adjournment of one month with avoiding adjournments on such cases.