Central Information Commission
CIC/AD/C/2009/001003
Dated December 14, 2009
Name of the Applicant : Shri Tulsi Das Sharma
Name of the Public Authority : AIR, New Delhi
Background
1. The Applicant filed an RTI application dt.8.9.09 with the DG(News), News Service
Division, AIR, New Delhi requesting for information against 3 points regarding
broadcast of news in other languages. On not receiving any reply, he filed a complaint
dt.28.10.09 before CIC. In his complaint he stated that he has written a letter on
13.3.09 in which he had requested the DG to broadcast the news in Bhojpuri over
Patna Radio and gave the reasons why this should been done. When he applied under
RTI vide letter dt.28.4.09, he got a reply dt.27.5.09 informing him that the letter
dt.13.3.09 did not reach the office. So he once again sent a letter on 1.7.09 through
speed post. However, on not receiving any reply to letter dt.1.7.09, he filed an RTI
application dt.8.9.09. Since no reply was received to the RTI application, he is
preferring a complaint.
2. The Bench of Mrs. Annapurna Dixit, Information Commissioner, scheduled the hearing
for December 14, 2009.
3. Shri Gita Ram, Sr. Administrative Officer represented the Public Authority.
4. The Complainant was heard through audio conferencing.
Decision
5. Shri Gita Ram submitted that in consultation with DG, Regional News Unit, a reply was
given on 11.11.09 stating that the RTI application was received on 5.10.09 and since
it is a policy matter, the application is being forwarded to Directorate General. He
further added that it would take time to take a decision on the matter as it would
involve extra manpower and additional infrastructure etc. He stated that as soon a
decision is taken, the Complainant would be informed about it,
6. The Commission after hearing the submissions directs the CPIO to provide the
information to the Complainant within one week of the decision being arrived at.
The Commission directs the CPIO, News Service Division, AIR, New Delhi to show
cause as to why a penalty should not be imposed on him for a delay of more than one
month in furnishing information, The response to reach the Commission by 15
January, 2010.
7. The complaint is accordingly disposed of.
(Annapurna Dixit)
Information Commissioner
Authenticated true copy:
(G.Subramanian)
Deputy Registrar
Cc:
1. Shri Tulsi Prasad Sharma
General Secretary
Akhil Bharatiya Swatantra
Senani Mahasangh
Bhojpur
Sheetal Tola
Aara 802 301
2. The CPIO
News Service Division
All India Radio
New Delhi
3. Officer incharge, NIC
4. Press E Group, CIC