What is the Central Information Commission (CIC)?
The Central Information Commission is the apex body for RTI appeals related to central government departments, ministries, and public authorities under the central government.
Establishment: CIC was established under Section 12 of the RTI Act, 2005.
Composition of CIC
- Chief Information Commissioner (CIC): Head of the Commission
- Information Commissioners (ICs): Up to 10 Information Commissioners
- Appointment: By the President of India on recommendation of a committee
- Tenure: Term of office (subject to RTI Amendment Act, 2019)
Powers and Functions of CIC
- Receive and decide Second Appeals from central government departments
- Order public authority to provide information
- Impose penalty on PIO - ₹250 per day up to ₹25,000
- Direct payment of compensation to complainant
- Recommend disciplinary action against erring officers
- Summon and enforce attendance of persons
- Require discovery and production of documents
- Receive evidence on affidavits
How to File Second Appeal with CIC
- Visit CIC website: cic.gov.in
- Click on "File Second Appeal"
- Register with email and mobile
- Fill appeal form with details of RTI, First Appeal, and FAA order
- Upload supporting documents
- Pay ₹50 fee (online) - waived for BPL
- Submit appeal and note registration number
What Happens After Filing Second Appeal?
- Appeal is registered and assigned to an Information Commissioner
- Notice is issued to the PIO and FAA
- Parties may be called for hearing (in person or video conference)
- CIC passes order directing disclosure or upholding rejection
- CIC can also impose penalty if delay was unjustified
Important CIC Powers
- Penalty Power: CIC can penalize PIOs for unjustified delay or malafide rejection
- Compensation: Can award compensation up to ₹25,000 to complainant
- Disciplinary Recommendation: Can recommend action under service rules
- Appeal against CIC order: To High Court under Article 226 of Constitution
Important: CIC decisions are binding on public authorities. Non-compliance can lead to contempt proceedings.
Landmark CIC Decisions
- PIOs cannot refuse on "public interest" without proper reasoning
- Judges' assets: CIC held that information about judges' assets is not exempt (Supreme Court later stayed)
- Political parties: CIC held that political parties are public authorities - being challenged in courts
- PMO and CMO: Within RTI ambit for routine administrative matters
CIC Contact Information
Website: cic.gov.in
Address: Central Information Commission, August Kranti Bhawan, Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi - 110066
Helpline: 011-26180532