No More ‘Data Not Available’: State Information Commission Warns Against Denying RTI Queries, Holds Office Heads Responsible

Thrissur: The Kerala State Information Commissioner, Dr. K. M. Dileep, has issued a strict warning against public offices that deny Right to Information (RTI) applications using the common pretexts of ‘information not available’ or ‘data not compiled.’ He emphatically stated that the responsibility of maintaining files in an organized manner for timely public access lies squarely with the Office Head.

Speaking after an RTI Commission sitting at the Collectorate Conference Hall, Dr. Dileep announced that stringent action would be initiated against Office Heads who attempt to deny information based on these unacceptable excuses.

Dr. Dileep stressed that knowledge of the RTI Act is not limited to the Public Information Officer (PIO) alone; it is mandatory for all officials handling files. He reiterated that citizens have a right to receive information in a time-bound manner, and data must be provided within the provisions of the law. He warned that disciplinary action would be taken against officials who fail to comply.

During the sitting, the Commission considered 30 cases related to various departments, including Revenue, Police, Local Self-Government, PWD, KSEB, and Devaswom. Out of these, 26 cases were disposed of, with four postponed for the next sitting.