In Gujarat, the Information Commission has taken a strong stand against government officials who fail to provide information as required by law. Recently, a geologist from Banaskantha district faced a fine of ₹5,000 for not providing requested information to a citizen. This incident has raised eyebrows and highlighted the need for accountability in public service.
The case began when Anand Kumar M. Parmar submitted a request for information to Gurpreet Singh, the district geologist, on April 12, 2024. He sought details on six specific points. However, the information was not provided within the stipulated time. Frustrated, Parmar appealed to the first appellate authority. This authority ordered the geologist to provide the required information promptly. Despite this order, Singh did not comply, prompting Parmar to escalate the matter to the Gujarat Information Commission in Gandhinagar.
During the hearing, it was revealed that Singh had intentionally neglected to provide the requested information. He also failed to appear before the commission when summoned. The commission viewed this as a serious breach of duty, as public information officers are required by law to respond to information requests in a timely manner. As a result, the commission imposed a fine of ₹5,000 on Singh, which he must pay into the government treasury by June 30, 2025. Alternatively, the amount can be deducted from his salary.
The Gujarat Information Commission stated that such penalties serve as a warning to other officials. It is crucial for government employees to adhere to the provisions of the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The commission aims to uphold its dignity and ensure that officials understand the importance of complying with the law.
This incident is part of a broader issue regarding transparency and accountability in the government. Many citizens face difficulties when trying to obtain information from government bodies. The RTI Act was enacted to empower citizens and ensure that they can access information that is crucial for their rights and civic engagement.
The commission’s actions reflect a commitment to upholding the principles of the RTI Act. By penalising negligent officials, they hope to encourage a culture of transparency in public administration. The public has a right to know about government activities, and officials are obligated to facilitate access to this information.
In conclusion, the fine imposed on the Banaskantha geologist serves as a reminder that government officials must take their duties seriously. The Gujarat Information Commission is determined to ensure compliance with the RTI Act and protect citizens’ rights to information. This case may inspire others to pursue their right to information and hold government officials accountable for their actions.
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