CIC rips into SCB on 4-yr wait on RTI query

The Secunderabad Cantonment Board has been shamed by the Central Information Commission for making RTI applicants wait as long as 4 years for a reply, when the maximum time is 60 days after the first appeal.

Referring to an RTI filed in 2014 by a resident from Balamrai society, on the water distribution system in Trimurty colony and Balamrai society, Appellant Mr C. J. Karira still has not got a satisfactory reply from SCB. The Central information commission, in its letter said, “SCB was found to be at fault in not following the provisions of the RTI Act. This includes the instances of not having replied to RTI applicants within the stipulated time.

The commission is of the opinion that the RTI replies are unsatisfactory and reek of lackadaisical attitude of the officers.

It also reflects that poor management of records and inadequate handling of correspondence received through dak as well as employees who are oblivious of the provision of the RTI Act.

It is also alarming to note that responses to RTI applicants are sent through ordinary post while retaining no proof of delivery. All of this amounts to gross violations of the provisions of the RTI act as well as disregards the directions of the commission.”

The loopholes of the SCB information department came into the picture when Appellant Mr. Karira, sought for information in 2014 regarding names, designation, office telephone number, mobile number and email ID of officers designated, concerned with providing information.