'If Files Are Lost, Action Will Be Taken'

The CIC disposed of 3,541 cases between April 2006 and February 2007 but it has a dismal record on imposing penalties.

We have imposed penalties in 18 appeals, of which 12 have been paid. In most cases, a showcause notice from theCIC  is adequate to make the PIOs part with information.

Is Section 4(1), which says information must be indexed, adhered to? 

I agree there has been negligible compliance with section 4(1). We have taken up the issue and the National Informatics Centre is working on software to help disseminate information.

Why do files get lost?

I have just issued instructions that where files have been lost, an fir must be lodged. In some cases, we have asked departments to trace the files and fix responsibility and take action.

Will information ever become transparent?

This is an Act owned by the public, yet its awareness is still not widespread. ThePIOs have the mandate to ensure compliance, but seem to be unaware of their duties and responsibilities.