CIC to introduce the New annual ranking system for Govt Deptts for RTI

NEW DELHI. Central Information Commission (CIC)  has decided to take corrective measures to make the errant government departments fall in line and voluntarily disclose information in the light of  the fact that few  With central ministries and government departments refusing to disclose information on websites and through other published material, the transparency watchdog

The CIC may soon kick off a new annual ranking system for central ministries and departments to rate their disclosures on websites and content in other government publications. The ranking system would name the defaulters and would be introduced this year.

The move is prompted by the repeated findings in the CIC’s data collection exercise from public authorities. Over the years, ministries and departments have refused to update their websites and give updated information to the common man. Section 4 of RTI Act lays down “Obligations of public authorities”, which include publishing of particulars of the organization, powers and duties of its officials, documents held by it, a directory of officials, monthly remuneration received by its officials and other details.