The Central Information Commission (CIC) was established in 2005 as an independent regulatory body under the Right to Information Act (RTI). The primary responsibility of the CIC is to promote transparency and accountability in the functioning of public institutions by ensuring that citizens’ right to information is protected.
The CIC is responsible for adjudicating on complaints and appeals regarding the implementation of the RTI Act. It plays a vital role in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance by ensuring that information is accessible to citizens.
One of the key roles of the CIC is to ensure that public institutions comply with the provisions of the RTI Act. This is essential for promoting transparency in the functioning of public institutions. The CIC has the power to impose penalties on public officials who fail to provide information under the Act, which serves as a deterrent to public officials who might be tempted to withhold information.
Another role of the CIC is to promote the use of technology in making information accessible to citizens. The CIC has taken several initiatives to promote the use of technology, such as launching online portals for filing RTI applications and appeals, and making information available in electronic format.
The CIC has also played a crucial role in promoting transparency in the functioning of political parties. In June 2013, the CIC declared that political parties were public authorities under the RTI Act, and therefore, subject to its provisions. This decision was a game-changer, as it made it mandatory for political parties to provide information under the RTI Act, which was previously not possible.
In conclusion, the CIC has played a significant role in promoting transparency and accountability in India. The CIC is responsible for ensuring that citizens’ right to information is protected, and that public institutions comply with the provisions of the RTI Act. By promoting the use of technology and championing political parties’ transparency, the CIC has been instrumental in improving governance in India.
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