CIC directs Defense Ministry to provide a revised reply as per Section 8 of the RTI Act

Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by News Desk

Background:- Activist Vihar Durve had filed an RTI where he sought comprehensive information on the Agnipath Scheme. It was said by the Defence Ministry that the files are classified as secret and cannot be disclosed as per the provision of section 8(1)(a) of the RTI Act.

Vihar Durve was not satisfied with the answer that was provided and made the first appeal in 2022 however, the FAA upheld the response.

Again, with the second appeal, Durve approached the commission.

Issue:- He pleaded that section 8(1)(a) of the RTI Act was not applicable in the given case.

Arguments:- The respondent defended by saying that the information that was being sought by the petitioner was confidential and the disclosure of the same would result in prejudice of the sovereignty and integrity of the country.

It was argued by the petitioner that there was no mention of the word secret in the exemption that is being claimed by the respondent.

Conclusion:– The defense ministry has been directed by the CIC to revisit its decision to withhold the records about the Agnipath scheme under the RTI Act and as per the applicable exemption of the RTI Act provide the revised information.

Written By:- Shianjany Pradhan (@SHIANJANYPRADHAN)