GUIDELINES FOR INSPECTION UNDER RTI

GUIDELINES FOR INSPECTION UNDER RTI 1. Even if you do not desire to carry out actual inspection of records, invariably make a request as under in RTI application: “After receipt of information under this application, I intend to carry out actual inspection of records and obtain certified photocopies of records identified by me during inspection. I may be permitted such inspection.” This will have deterring effect on PIO against providing false information. 2. If you are not very conversant with language of record or have any other disability, please also add following sentence in RTI application: “I may also be permitted to seek assistance of one of my assistant/advocate/C.A. during inspection, as I am not fully conversant with the language in which your records are maintained. [refer decision dated 15-10-08 of Central Information Commission in appeal No. CIC/WB/A/2007/00692-SM]” 3. When you get permission for inspection from PIO, FAA or Information Commissioner, send a letter by speed post to PIO stating list of records that you would like to inspect. Please also mention three tentative dates with time which would be convenient to you and also seek exact name, address, email ID and phone number of PIO. 4. On appointed day, visit the office well before fixed time with your assistant [if permitted] and with copy of relevant decision, photocopy of your photo ID proof [election card, PAN card, passport etc], digital camera, mobile [with recording facility], blank papers, carbon papers, note pad, blank CD, 20-25 paper flaps [ for putting in registers or files to identify papers], pen, pencil, copy of RTI Act and Rules etc. 5. Please make note of your visit and that of your assistant in register maintained at entry point or reception as now most of govt. offices are having such register. This will be proof of your visit at the fixed date and time. 6. Contact the PIO and request for inspection. 7. Ask PIO to prepare inspection slip for noting down date and time etc of commencing inspection and ending inspection and payment of inspection charges. Some offices have register for these details. If he insists that charges be paid in advance before commencing inspection as per tentative hours required for inspection, pay the amount against receipt and then start inspection. 8. Please insist that PIO or any other person from office should be present with you during inspection. 9. In case if sitting arrangement, lighting and air in the room are not conducive to inspection, inform PIO orally and in writing [if need be], with time and date. 10. Start inspection and whatever record you find worth obtaining certified photocopies, use your digital camera and put a paper flap. 11. Go on making notings in your note pad of what ever is necessary from record with page number and name of register or file etc. 12. In case despite all efforts you are not in a position to inspect, give in writing to PIO all the reasons and obtain his acknowledgement on copy then and there. Also inform personally or on phone to FAA. 13. If you need data from computers, ask PIO to provide assistance of office staff for accessing computer data. Note down details so that required information can be obtained in a CD. Do not operate office computer yourself. 14. Whenever you talk to PIO keep the audio recorder on in your mobile and ensure that conversation is recorded. 15. At the end of inspection or during it ask PIO that you need certified photocopies of record where flaps are kept and collect the same before leaving the office. 16. Once you end inspection, make entry into inspection slip or register with problems faced by you if any or that you want to continue inspection on next date. Put date and time and pay or seek refund of balance of inspection fees. Pay as per RTI rules applicable for central govt. or state govt. rules for inspection as the case may be. 17. In case certified copies or CDs are not provided before leaving the office, give a written request [against acknowledgement] with page numbers of record etc to PIO for certified copy. 18. Be cool, collected and courteous during entire visit and inspection. Thank all the staff and PIO if they have cooperated with you for inspection. 19. Do not write any thing on govt. record. 20. Next week mail a list of papers you require from PIO which have been identified by you during inspection, as a reminder. Pay the charges if papers are provided within 30 days of submission of RTI application. 21. If you face serious difficulties in inspection, file detailed written complaint with FAA or Information Commissioner [with copy to PIO in his name] and request for appropriate orders to facilitate proper inspection. 22. CIC has permitted videography and photography during inspection in following two decisions: CIC/WB/A/2006/00144 decision dated 03-08-2006 and CIC/AD/A/09/00125 dated 23-02- 2009 23. Please also visit http://www.rtigateway.org.in/Documents/Publications/Audit_of_Section_41b_Disclosure-A_Framework.pdf Happy officially inspecting of govt. records by a common citizen under RTI.

Press Council Act 1978

Press Council Act 1978 An Act to establish a Press Council for the purpose of preserving the freedom of the Press and of maintaining and improving the standards of newspapers and news agencies in India. Be it enacted by Parliament in the Twenty-ninth year of the Republic of India as follows : CHAPTER I PRELIMINARY Short title and extent 1. ( 1) This Act may be called the Press Council Act 1978; (2) It extends to the whole of India. Definitions 2. In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, (a) "Chairman" means the Chairman of the Council; (b) "Council" means the Press Council of India established under section 4; (c) "Member: means a member of the Council and includes its Chairman; (d) "Prescribed" means prescribed by rules made under this Act; 25 of 1867 45 of 1955 (e) The expressions "editor" and "newspaper" have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, and the expression "working journalist" has the meaning assigned to it in the Working Journalists and other Newspaper Employees (Conditions of Service) and Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1955. ' Rule of construction respecting enactments not extending to the State of Jammu and Kashmir or Sikkim 3. Any reference in this Act to-a law which is not in force in the State of Jammu & Kashmir or Sikkim shall, in relation to that State, be construed as a reference to the corresponding law, if any, in force in that State. CHAPTER IIESTABLISHMENT OF THE PRESS COUNCIL Incorporation of The Council 4(1) With-effect from such date as the Central Government, may, by notification in the Official Gazette, appoint, there shall be established a council by the name of the Press Council of India. (2) The said Council shall be a body corporate having perpetual succession and a common seal and shall by the said name sue and be sued. Composition of the Council 5 (1) The Council shall consist of a Chairman and twenty-eight other members. (2) The Chairman shall be a person nominated by a Committee consisting of the Chairman of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), the Speaker of the House of the People (Lok Sabha) and a person elected by the members of the Council under sub-section (6) and the nominations so made shall take effect from the date on which it is notified by the Central Government in the Official Gazette. (3) Of the other members- (a) thirteen shall be nominated in accordance with such procedure as may be prescribed from among the working journalists of whom six shall be editors of newspapers and the remaining seven shall be working journalists other than editors, so, however, that the number of such editors and working journalists other than editors in relation to newspapers published in Indian languages shall be not less than three and four respectively; (b) six shall be nominated in accordance with such procedure as may be prescribed from among persons who own or carry on the business of management of newspapers, so, however, that there shall be two representatives from each of the categories of big newspapers, medium newspapers and small newspapers; (c) One shall be nominated in accordance with such procedure as may be prescribed from among persons who manage news agencies; (d) three shall be persons having special knowledge or practical experience in respect of education and science, law and literature and culture of whom respectively one shall be nominated by the University Grants Commission, one by the Bar Council of India and one by the Sahitya Academy; (e) five shall be members of Parliament of whom three shall be nominated by the Speaker from among the members of the House of the People (Lok Sabha) and two shall be nominated by the Chairman of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) from among its members; Provided that no working journalist who owns, or carries on the business of management of, any newspaper shall be eligible for nomination under clause (a); Provided further that the nomination under clause (a) and clause (b) shall be so made that the among the persons nominated there is not more than one person interested in any newspaper or group of newspapers under the same control of management. *Explanation: "For the purpose of clause (b), a 'newspaper' shall be deemed to be categorised as big medium or small newspaper on the basis of its circulation per issue, as the Central Government, may, by notification in the official gazette, notify from time to time. (*Explanation amended vide Gazette Extraordinary dated June 6, 1994) (4) Before making any nomination under clause (a), clause (b) or clause (c) of sub-section (3), the Central Government in the case of the first Council and the retiring Chairman of the previous Council in the case of any subsequent Council shall, in the prescribed manner, invite panels of names comprising twice the number of members to be nominated from such associations of persons of the categories referred to in the said clause(a) clause (b) or clause (c) as may be notified in this behalf by the Central Government in the case of the first Council and by the Council itself in the case of subsequent Councils; Provided that where there is no association of persons of the category referred to in said clause (c), the panels of names shall be invited from such news agencies as may be notified as aforesaid. (5) The Central Government shall notify the names of persons nominated as members under subsection (3) in the Official Gazette and every such nomination shall take effect from the date on which it is notified. (6) The members of the Council notified under sub-section (5) shall elect from among themselves in accordance with such procedure as may be prescribed a person to be a member of the Committee referred to in sub-section (2) and a meeting of the members of the Council for the purpose of such election shall be presided over by a person chosen from among themselves. Term of office and retirement of members 6(1) Save as otherwise provided in this section, the Chairman and other members shall hold office for a period of three years: Provided that the Chairman shall continue to hold such office until the Council is reconstituted in accordance with the provision of section 5 for a period of six months whichever is earlier. (2) Where a person nominated as a member under clause (a), clause (b) or clause (c) of subsection (3) of section 5 is censured under the provision of sub-section (1) of Section 14, he shall cease to be a member of the Council. (3) The term of office of a member nominated under clause (e) of sub-section (3) of section 5 shall come to an end as soon as he ceases to be a member of the House from which he was nominated. (4) A member shall be deemed to have vacated his seat if he is absent without excuse, sufficient in the opinion of the Council from three consecutive meetings of the Council. (5) The Chairman may resign his office by giving notice in writing to the Central Government, and any other member may resign his office by giving notice in writing to the Chairman, and upon such resignation being accepted by the Central Government, or as the case may be, the Chairman, the Chairman or the member shall be deemed to have vacated his office. (6) Any vacancy arising under sub-section (2), sub-section (3) sub-section (4) or sub-section (5) or otherwise shall be filled, as soon as may be, by nomination in the same manner in which the member vacating the office was nominated and the member so nominated shall hold office for the remaining period in which the member in whose place he is nominated would have held office. 7) A retiring member shall be eligible for renomination for not more than one term. Conditions of service of members 7(1) The Chairman shall be a whole-time officer and shall be paid such salary as the Central Government may think fit; and the other members shall receive such allowances or fees for attending the meeting of the Council, as may be prescribed. (2) Subject to the provisions of sub-section (1), the conditions of service of members shall be such as may be prescribed. (3) it is hereby declared that the office of a member of the Council shall not disqualify its holder for being chosen, as, or for being, a member of either House of Parliament. Committees of the Council (8)(1) For the purpose of performing its functions under this Act, the Council may constitute from among its members such Committees for general or special purposes as it may deem necessary and every Committee so constituted shall perform such functions as are assigned to it by the Council. . (2) The Council shall have the power to co-opt as members of any Committee constituted under subsection (1) such other number of persons, not being members of the Council, as it thinks fit. (3) Any such member shall have the right to attend any meeting of the Committee on which he is so co-opted and to take part in the discussion thereat, but shall not have the right to vote and shall not be a member for any other purpose. Meeting of the Council and Committees 9. The Council or any Committee thereof shall meet at such times and places and shall observe such rules of procedure in regard to the transaction of business at its meetings as may be provided by regulations made under this Act. Vacancies among members of defect in the constitution not to invalidate acts and proceedings of the Council 10. No act or proceedings of the Council shall be deemed to be invalid by reason of the existence of any vacancy in, or any defect in the constitution of the Council. Staff of the Council 11(1) Subject to such rules as may be made by the Central Government in this behalf, the Council may appoint at Secretary and such other employees as it may think necessary for the efficient performance of its functions under this Act. (2) The terms and conditions of service of the employees shall be such as may be determined by regulations. Authentication of orders and other instruments of the Council 12. All orders and decisions of the Council shall be authenticated by the signature of the Chairman or any other member authorised by the Council in this behalf and other instruments issued by the Council shall be authenticated by the signature of the Secretary or any other officer of the Council authorised in like manner in this behalf. CHAPTER III POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF THE COUNCIL Objects and functions of the Council 13. ( 1 ) The objects of the Council shall be to preserve the freedom of the Press and to maintain and improve the standards of newspapers and news agencies in India. (2) The Council may, in furtherance of its objects, perform the following functions, namely : (a) to help newspapers and news agencies to maintain their independence; (b) to build up a code of conduct for newspapers, news agencies and journalists in accordance with high professional standards; (c) to ensure on the part of newspapers, news agencies and journalists, the maintenance of high standards of public taste and foster a due sense of both the rights and responsibilities of citizenship; (d) to encourage the growth of a sense of responsibility and public service among all those engaged in the profession of journalism; (e) to keep under review any development likely to restrict the supply and dissemination of news of public interest and importance; (f) to keep under review cases of assistance received by any newspaper or news agency in India from any foreign source including such cases as are referred to it by the Central Government or are brought to its notice by an individual, association of persons or any other organisation. Provided that nothing in this clause shall preclude the Central Government from dealing with any case of assistance received by a newspaper or news agency in India from any foreign source in any other manner it thinks fit; (g) to undertake studies of foreign newspapers, including those brought out by any embassy or other representative in India of a foreign State, their circulation and impact. 5 of 1908 Explanation- For the purpose of this clause the expression "foreign State" has the meaning assigned to it in Section 87A of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908; (h) To promote a proper functional relationship among all classes of persons engaged in the production or publication of newspapers or in news agencies. 14 of 1947 Provided that nothing in this clause shall be deemed to confer on the Council any functions in regard to disputes to which the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, applies; (i) to concern itself with developments such as concentration of or other aspects of ownership of newspapers and news agencies which may affect the independence of the Press; (j) to undertake such studies as may be entrusted to the Council and to express its opinion in regard to any matter referred to it by the Central Government; (k) to do such other acts as may be incidental or conducive to the discharge of the above functions. Power to Censure 14(1) Where, on receipt of a complaint made to it or otherwise, the Council has reason to believe that a newspaper or news agency has offended against the standards of journalistic ethics or public taste or that an editor or working journalist has committed any professional misconduct, the Council may, after giving the newspaper, or news agency, the editor or journalist concerned an opportunity of being heard, hold an inquiry in such manner as may be provided by regulations made under this Act and, if it is satisfied that it is necessary so to do, it may, for reasons to be recorded in writing, warn, admonish or censure the newspaper, the news agency, the editor or the journalist or disapprove the conduct of the editor or the journalist, as the case may be : Provided that the Council may not take cognizance of a complaint if in the opinion of the Chairman, there is no sufficient ground for holding an inquiry. (2) If the Council is of the opinion that it is necessary or expedient in public interest so to do, it may require any newspaper to publish therein in such manner as the Council thinks fit, any particulars relating to any inquiry under this section against a newspaper or news agency, an editor or a journalist working therein, including the name of such newspaper, news agency, editor or journalist. (3) Nothing in sub-section (1) sha11 be deemed to empower the Council to hold an inquiry into any matter in respect of which any proceeding is pending in a court of law. (4) The decision of the Council under sub-section ( I ), or sub-section (2), as the case be, shall be final and shall not be questioned in a court of law. General powers of the Council 5 of 1908 15. (1) For the purpose of performing its functions or holding any inquiry under this Act, the Council shall have the same powers throughout India as are vested in a civil court while trying a suit under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, in respect of the followings matters, namely: (a) summoning and enforcing the attendance of persons and examining them on oath; (b) requiring the discovery and inspection of documents; (c) receiving evidence on affidavits; (d) requisitioning any public record or copies thereof from any court or office; (e) issuing commissions for the examination of witnesses or documents; and (f) any other matter, which may be prescribed (2) Nothing in sub-section (1) shall be deemed to compel any newspaper, news agency, editor or journalist to disclose the source of any news or information published by that newspaper or received or reported by that news agency, editor or journalists. 45 of 1860 (3) Every inquiry held by the Council shall be deemed to be a judicial proceeding within the meaning of sections 193 and 228 of the Indian Penal Code. (4) The Council may, if it considers it necessary for the purpose of carrying out its objects or for the performance of any of its functions under this Act, make such observations, as it may think fit, in any of its decisions or reports, respecting the conduct of any authority, including Government. Levy of fees 16(l ) The Council may for the purpose of performing its functions under this Act, levy such fees, at such rates and in such manner, as may be prescribed, from registered newspapers and news agencies and different rates may be prescribed for different newspapers having regard to their circulation and other matters. (2) Any fees payable to the Council under sub-section ( 1 ) may be recovered as an arrear of land revenue. Payments to the Council 17. The Central Government may, after due appropriation made by Parliament by law in this behalf, pay to the Council by way of grants such sums of money as the Central Government may consider necessary for the performance of the functions of the Council under this Act. Funds of the Council 18. (1) The Council shall have its own fund; and the fees collected by it, all such sums as may, from time to time, be paid to it by the Central Government and all grants and advances made to it by any authority or person shall be credited to the Fund and all payments by the Council shall be made therefrom. (2) All moneys belonging to the Funds hall be deposited in such banks or invested in such manner as may, subject to the approval of the Central Government, be decided by the Council. (3) The Council may spend such sums it thinks fit for performing its functions under this Act, and such sums shall be treated as expenditure payable out of the Fund of the Council. Budget 19. The Council shall prepare, in such form and at such time each year as may be prescribed, a budget in respect of the financial year next ensuing showing the estimated receipts and expenditure, and copies thereof shall be forwarded to the Central Government. Annual Report 20. The Council shall prepare once every year, in such form and at such time as may be prescribed, an annual report, giving a summary of its activities during the previous year, and giving an account of the standards of newspapers and news agencies and factors affecting them and copies thereof, together with the statement of accounts audited in the manner prescribed under section 22 shall be forwarded to the Central Government and the Government shall cause the same to be laid before both Houses of Parliament. Interim Reports 21. Without prejudice to the provisions of section 20, the Council may prepare at any time during the course of a year, a report giving a summary of such of its activities during the year as it considers to be of public importance and copies thereof shall be forwarded to the Central Government and the Government shall cause the same to be laid before both Houses of Parliament. Accounts and Audit 22. The accounts of the Council shall be maintained and audited in such manner as may, in consolation with the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India, be prescribed. CHAPTER IV MISCELLANEOUS Protection of action taken in good faith 23. (1) No suit or other legal proceeding shall lie against the Council or any member thereof or any person acting under the direction of the Council in respect of anything which is in good faith done or intended to be done under this Act. (2) No suit or other legal proceeding shall lie against any newspaper in respect of the publication of any matter therein under the authority of the Council. Members, etc., to be public servants 45 of 1980 24. Every member of the Council and every officer or other employee appointed by the Council shall be deemed to be public servant within meaning of section 21 of the Indian Penal Code. Power to make Rules 25 (1) The Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, make rules to carry out the purposes of this Act. Provided that when the Council has been established, no such rules shall be made without consulting the Council : (2) In particular, and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing power, such rules may provide for all or any of the following matters, namely: (a) the procedure for nomination of members of the Council under clauses (a), (b) and (c) of sub section (3) of section 5; (b) the manner in which panels of names may be invited under sub-section (4) of section 5; (c) the procedure for election of a member of the Committee referred to in sub-section (2) of section 5 under sub-section (6) of that section; (d) the allowances or fees to be paid to the members of the Council for attending the meeting of the Council, and other conditions of service of such members under sub-sections (1) and (2) of section 7; (e) the appointment of the Secretary and other employees of the Council under Section 11; (f) the matters referred to in clause (f) of sub-section (1) of Section 15; (g) the rates at which fees may be levied by the Council under section 16 and the manner in which such fees may be levied; (h) the form in which, and the time within which, the budget and annual report are to be prepared by the Council under sections 19 and 20 respectively; (i) the manner in which the accounts of the Council are to be maintained and audited under section 22. (3) Every rule made under this section shall be laid, as soon as may be after it is made, before each House of Parliament, while it is in session; for a total period of thirty days which may be comprised in one session or in two or more successive sessions, and if, before the expiry of the session immediately following the session or the successive session aforesaid, both Houses agree in making any modification in the rule or both Houses agree that the rule should not be made, the rule shall thereafter have effect only in such modified form or be of no effect, as the case may be; so, however, that any such modification or annulment shall be without prejudice to the validity of anything previously done under that rule. Power to make regulations 26. *(1) The Council may #(by notification in the official gazette) make regulations not inconsistent with this Act and the Rules made thereunder, for- *Renumbered by Act 20 of 1983, Section 2, and the Schedule (w.e.f., 15th March 1984) #Ins by ibid (w.e.f., 15th March, 1984) (a) regulating the meetings of the Council or any Committee thereof and the procedure for conducting the business there at under section 9' (b) specifying the terms and conditions of service of the employees, appointed by the Council, under sub-section (2) of section 11; ( c) regulating the manner of holding any inquiry under this Act; (d) delegating to the Chairman or the Secretary of the Council, subject to such conditions as it may think fit to impose, any of its powers under subsection (3) of section 18; (e) any other matter for which provisions may be made by regulations under this Act; Provided that the regulations made under clause (b) shall be made only with the prior approval of the Central Government. #3(2) The Central Government shall cause every regulation made under this Act to be laid, as soon as may be after it is made, before each House of Parliament, while it is in session, for a total period of thirty days which may be comprised in one session or in two or more successive sessions, and if, before the expiry of the session immediately following the session or the successive sessions aforesaid, both Houses agree in making any modification in the regulation or both Houses agree that the regulation should not be made, the regulation should not be made, the regulation shall thereafter have effect only in such modified form or be of no effect, as the case may be; so, however, that any modification or annulment shall be without prejudice to the validity of anything previously done under that regulation. #Ins by Ibid *Amendment of Act 25 of 1867 27. In sub-section (1) of section 8C of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, for the words "consisting of a Chairman and another member to be appointed by the Central Government", the words and figures" consisting of a Chairman and another member to be nominated by the Press-Council of India, established under section 4 of the Press Council Act 1978, from among its members" shall be substituted. *(Section 27 of the Press Council Act, 1978 repealed vide the Repealing and Amending Act, 1988, Section 2, Sch.I: upon amendment of Sec. 8( c) of Press and Registration Act, 1867 to incorporate the above mentioned words and figures). Published in the Gazette of India Part III Section 4 Gazette Extraordinary Press Council of India NOTIFICATION New Delhi dated Nov. 14, 1979 In exercise of powers conferred by clause (c) of Section 26 of the Press Council Act, 1978 (37 of 1978), and all other powers "hereunto enabling, the Press Council of India hereby makes the following Regulations, namely: 1. Short Title and Commencement: (1) These Regulations, may be called the Press Council (Procedure for Inquiry) (Amendment) Regulations, 2006. (2) They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette. 2. Definitions: Unless the context otherwise requires: (a) "Act" means the Press Council Act, 1978 (37 of 1978).(b) "Committee" means the Inquiry Committee constituted by the Council under Section 8(1) of the Act for the purpose of inquiry into complaints under Sections13(2) and 14 (1) of the Act: (c ) "Council" means the Press Council of India constituted under the Act; (d) "Complainant" means a person or authority making a complaint to the Council regarding a newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist, in the case of complaints under Section 14(1) of the Act, and with regard to complaints relating to other matters, means a person making a complaint to the Council in respect of any matter which the Council has jurisdiction to entertain, examine and pronounce `its views upon, and (e) "Matter" in the case of complaints under Section 14(1) means an article, newsitem, news-report, or any other matter which is published by a newspaper or transmitted by a news agency by any means whatsoever and includes a cartoon, picture, photograph' strip or advertisement which is published in a newspaper: and in the case of complaints relating to other matters, 'matter' relates to an action or inaction said to impinge upon the freedom of the press. 3. Contents of complaint in respect of a newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist under Section 14(1) of the Act: (1) where a person makes a complaint to the Council in respect of the publication or non-publication of any matter in any newspaper or news agency, under Section 14(1) of the Act he shall file the complaint in duplicate with sufficient copies for the respondents listed and shall - (a) furnish the name and address of the newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist against which or whom the complaint is preferred and in cases where the complaint relates to the publication of matter in a newspaper or to the transmission by a news agency, forward along with the complaint a cutting of the matter complained of in original or a self attested copy thereof and such other particulars as are relevant to the subject-matter of the complaint; and where the complaint is in respect of non-publication of matter, the original or a self attested copy of the matter, non-publication of which is complained of; (English translation of the matter if it is in vernacular) (b) state in what manner the publication or non-publication of the matter complained of is objectionable within the meaning of Section 14(1) of the Act; (c ) before filing the complaint before the Council, draw the attention of the newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist concerned, to the matter appearing in the newspaper etc. or to the non-publication there of which, in the opinion of the complainant, is objectionable and he shall also furnish to the newspaper, news agency, editor or the working journalist, as the case may be, the grounds for holding such opinion. The complainant shall, along with the complaint, enclose a copy of the letter written by him to the newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist together with a copy of the reply, if any received by him, provided that the Chairman may in his discretion waive this condition; (d)In case where the complaint is that an editor or a working journalist has committed any professional misconduct, other than the way of the publication or non-publication of any matter in a newspaper, the complainant shall set out clearly in detail the facts which according to him justify the complaint and the provisions of clause (c ) above shall also apply to such complaints. e) In every case place all other relevant facts before the Council; and (f) (i) In the case of a complaint relating to the publication or non-publication of any matter in respect of newspaper or news agency the same shall be lodged with the Council within the following periods of its publication or non-publication: A. Dailies, News agencies and Weeklies .. within 2 months B. In all other cases .. within 4 months Provided that a relevant publication of an earlier date may be referred to in the complaint. (ii) In the case of a complaint against an editor or working journalist under clause (d) above the same shall be lodged within 4 months of the misconduct complained of: Provided that the Chairman may, if satisfied that the complainant has acted promptly, but that the delay in filing the complaint within the period prescribed under sub clause (i) or sub-clause (ii) of Regulation (3)1(f) has been caused by reason of the time taken to comply with the condition laid down in sub clause (c) supra or on account of other sufficient cause condone the delay and entertain the complaint. (2)The complainant while presenting the complaint shall at the foot thereof make and subscribe to a declaration to the effect: (i) that to the best of his knowledge and belief he has placed all the relevant facts before the Council and that no proceedings are pending in any Court of Law in respect of any matter alleged in the complaint. (ii) that he shall inform the Council forthwith if during the pendency of the of the inquiry before the Council any matter alleged in the complaint becomes the subjectmatter of any proceeding in a Court of Law.4. Return of Complaint : (1) Where a complainant does not comply with the requirements of regulation 3, the Chairman may return the complaint under registered post acknowledgement due asking the complainant to bring it in conformity with such requirements and represent it within such time as he may deem fit in that behalf. (2) Where a complainant fails to comply with the requirements within four weeks of service thereof, the Chairman may decide to close action in the matter. The Council shall, at its next meeting, be apprised of such decision. 5.Issue of notice: ( I ) As soon as possible, and in any case not later than forty five days from the date of receipt of a complaint complete in all respects, under the direction of the Chairman, a copy thereof shall be sent to the newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist against which or whom the complaint has been made, under regulation 3 along with a notice requiring the newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist, as the case may be, to show cause why action should not be taken under Section 14 of the act. Provided that in appropriate cases the Chairman shall have the discretion to extend time for the issuance of the notice. Provided further that the Chairman may decide not to issue a notice to show cause to the newspaper, news agency, editor or working journalist where, in his opinion, there is no sufficient ground for holding an inquiry. The Council at its next meeting shall be apprised by the Chairman of the reasons for his decision not to issue a "Show Cause" notice and it may pass such orders as it deems fit. (2) The notice issued under sub-regulation ( I ) above shall be sent to the newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist concerned by registered post, acknowledgement due, at the address furnished in the complaint. 6. Filing of written statement: ( 1 ) The newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist against which or whom the complaint is made may, within fourteen days from the date of service of the copy of the complaint and notice under regulation 5 or within such further time as may be granted by the Chairman in this behalf, submit a written statement in reply to the complaint. (2) A copy of the written statement when received shall be forwarded to the complainant for his information. (3) After receipt of the complaint or written statement, the Chairman may, if he considers necessary, call for any further information either from the complainant or the respondent newspaper, news agency, editor or working journalist, as the case may be, in order to clarify matters appearing in the complaint or written statement and in doing so, may call for such documents or further statements as he might consider necessary. All the documents and statements called for by him shall form part of the record and shall be placed before the Committee at the time of the inquiry. 7. Power to call for additional particulars etc.: The Committee may after considering the complaint and the written statement, call for such additional particulars or documents or relevant to the subject-matter of the case as it may consider necessary from both the parties or either of them. 8. Rejection of complaint of the same nature previously inquired into: (I) Where at any time in the course of the inquiry into the complaint it appears to the Committee that the subject-matter of the complaint is substantially the same as, or has been covered by any former complaint dealt with by the Council under these regulations, the Committee shall hear the complainant, if he desires to be heard' and also if the Committee considers it necessary, the newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist, as the case may be, and make its recommendation to the Council which may pass such order as may be considered necessary and the same shall be duly communicated to the parties. 9. Inquiry by the Committee: Notice of the time, date and place of hearing shall be served on the complainant as well as on the newspaper, news agency, editor and working journalist, as the case may be, and shall be sent by registered post, acknowledgement due. In the inquiry before the Committee the parties shall be entitled to adduce relevant evidence, oral or documentary, and make submissions in support of their contentions. (2) At the close of the Inquiry the Committee shall make a report of its findings on the allegations contained in the complaint together with its reasons and submit the record of the case to the Council. 10. Decision by the Council: (1) The Council shall after perusing the record of the case, pass orders giving its decision or it may remit the case to the Committee for such further inquiry as the Council may deem necessary and after receipt of its report dispose of the case. (2) Every case shall be determined by a majority of votes of the members of the Council present and voting, and in the event of the votes being equal, the Chairman shall have a casting vote and shall exercise the same.(3) The order of the Council shall be communicated in writing to the parties to the case. 11. Appearance of parties etc. : In any inquiry under these regulations, the editor, news agency or other working journalist, or any authority including government, or the newspaper through its editor, against which or whom a complaint has been made may appear in person, or with the permission of the Committee or Council as the case may be, by a Counsellor or a duly authorised representative. 12. Restrictions on power of members to discuss and vote in certain cases: No members of the Committee shall vote or take part in the discussion of, and no member of the Council shall vote or take part in the discussion of any complaint coming up for consideration at a meeting of the Committee or the Council if the case is one in which he is personally involved or has any direct or indirect interest by himself or his partner, or in which he is interested professionally on behalf of a client or as an agent or representative for any newspaper, news agency, editor or other working journalist as the case may be. 13. Power to take suo motu action: The Chairman may suo motu issue notice or, as the case may be, take action in respect of any matter which falls within the mischief of Section 14(1 ) of the Act or in respect of or relating to any matter falling under Section 13(2) thereof and thereupon the procedure prescribed by these regulations from regulation 5 onwards shall be followed as if it were a complaint under regulation 3. 14. Procedure in respect of complaints etc. under Section 13: The procedure prescribed by these regulations in respect of complaints under section 14(1) of the Act shal1 apply, as far as may be, to complaints or representations received by the Council with regard to any subject falling within the provisions of Section 13. Provided that a person making such a complaint shall make the complaint in duplicate with sufficient copies for the respondents listed and shall:- a) Give complete particulars of the respondent(s) viz Name, Designation and complete address. b) State how the action/inaction of the respondent authorities amounts to curtailment of the freedom of the press. Mention the possible reason for the action/inaction of the respondent(s)/authorities duly supported by documentary evidence.- In case the action of the respondent(s)/authorities is a reprisal measure for writings in the newspaper, critical of the respondent's), the cuttings of such reports be furnished in original or as self attested copies. (English translation, if the news item(s) is in vernacular. c) Draw the attention of the respondent(s)/authorities towards the grievance and furnish a copy of the letter written to the respondent(s)/authorities. • – Furnish a copy of the reply, if any, received from the respondent(s)/authorities. Provided that the Chairman may waive this requirement in his discretion. d) Place before the Council all relevant facts along with the supporting documents. e) (i) Time for filing complaint: 4 months from the date of cause of action. ii) Provided that the Chairman may condone the delay If he is satisfied that there exist sufficient reasons for such condonation. f) Make and subscribe to the declaration prescribed in Regulation 3(2) supra. Further provided that on receipt of such complaint, complete in all respects, under the direction of the Chairman, a copy thereof shall be sent to the authority against whom the complaint has been made along with a notice for statement in reply as to why the matter does not warrant observation under Section 15(4) of the Act. That the procedure specified in Regulation 7-12 above shall thereafter be adopted. 15. Procedure in matters not provided for in these Regulations: The Council as also the Committee shall have the power to regulate their own procedure in respect of any matter for which no provision or inadequate provision is made in these regulations and shall also have the power in appropriate cases to hold inquiries in camera. Sd/- (VIBHA BHARGAVA) Secretary to the Press Council

Dear All,
May the festival of light encircle your life with Joy and Happiness. Success comes at your doorsteps. With these blessings sending my warm wishes to you on Diwali and always.


• Jhilmilate dipon ki roshni se prakashit
    yeh Deepavali aapke ghar mein

   sukh samridhi aur ishwar ka
   aashirwad le kar aaye.

    Shubh Deepavali.!


 Lakshmi aaye itni ki sab jagah aapka naam ho,
    Din raat vyapar bade aapka itna adhik kaam ho,

    Ghar aur samaj me aap bane sartaj,
    yehi kamna hai hamari aap ke liye.

    Diwali ki dhero shubhkamanaye!

Guidance sheet for implementation of the ‘Smokefree Rules’ under Tobacco Control Laws

Guidance sheet for implementation of the ‘Smokefree Rules’ under Tobacco Control Laws ¾ 1. Section (4) of the ‘Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003’ prohibits smoking in public places . Any violation of this act is a punishable offence with fine up to Rs. 200. However, the hotel with 30 rooms or more, Restaurants with 30 seating capacity or more and airport may create a separate smoking area or space. 2. “‘Public Place’ as defined in the Act and the rules means any place to which the public has access whether as of right or not and includes all places visited by general public and includes ¾ Auditorium , ¾ Hospital Buildings, ¾ Health Institutions, ¾ Amusement Centres, ¾ Restaurants, ¾ Hotels, ¾ Public Offices, ¾ Court Buildings, ¾ Educational Institutions, ¾ Libraries, ¾ Public Conveyances, ¾ Open Auditorium, ¾ Stadium, ¾ Railway Stations, ¾ Bus Stops, ¾ Workplaces, ¾ Shopping Malls, ¾ Cinema Halls, ¾ Refreshment Rooms, ¾ Discotheques, ¾ Coffee House, ¾ Pubs, ¾ Bars, ¾ Airport Lounge 13. The provisions relating to ‘Prohibition of Smoking in Public Places’ were given effect to rules were given effect to from 1stMay 2004. Recently, these provisions were reviewed and a comprehensive rule ‘Prohibition of Smoking in Public Places Rules, 2008’ have been notified on 30th May 2008. These rules are to take effect from 2nd October 2008. The salient features of these rules are : ¾ It is the duty of the owner, proprietor, manager or supervisor or incharge of affairs of public place: ™ To keep the area under his jurisdiction smoke-free. ™ Display the board as per the specification given in Figure – 1 . These boards shall be displayed at ƒ All entrances and other conspicuous places inside the building ƒ If there are more than one entrance then at all entrances. ƒ If there are more than one floor, at each floor including the stair case and entrance to the lift at each floor. ™ Notify and display the name of a person to whom a complaint may be made, in case someone is found violating the law. (specimen figure – 2). ™ Ensure that no ashtrays, matches, lighters or other things designed to facilitate smoking are provided. ¾ If the owner, proprietor, manager or supervisor , or in-charge of affairs of the public place fails to act on the report of such violation, he shall be fined equivalent to the number of individual offences. 2¾ All Hotels, Restaurants and Airport being public place have to be smoke-free. However, owner, proprietor, manager or supervisor or in-charge of affairs of the hotels having 30 or more rooms and restaurants having seating capacity of 30 or more and the manager of the airport may provide a separate smoking area /space as per the following specifications. ™ Physically separated and surrounded by full height walls on all four sides. ™ Having an entrance with automatically closing doors normally kept in close position. ™ Has an airflow system ƒ That is exhausted directly to the outside and not mixed back into the supply to the other parts of the building. ƒ That is fitted with a exhaust ventilation system which is non re-circulating in nature or an air cleaning system or a combination of two, in such a manner that air does not permeate into non smoking areas. ™ Has a negative air pressure in comparison with the remainder of the building. ¾ The smoking area /space shall not be established at the entrance or exit of the hotel, restaurant or airport and shall be distinctly marked as ‘smoking area’ in English and one Indian language as applicable. ¾ The smoking area/space should be used only for the purpose of smoking and no other service(s) shall be allowed. ¾ The owner, proprietor, manager or supervisor or in-charge of affairs having 30 or more rooms may designate separate smoking rooms in a manner as provided: 3™ All rooms designated as smoking rooms shall form a separate section in the same section or wing. In case there is more than one floor/wing, these rooms shall be in one floor or wing as the case may be. ™ All such rooms shall be distinctly marked as smoking rooms in English or one Indian language. ™ The smoke from such room shall not be ventilated outside and does not permeate in non smoking areas of the hotel including lobbies and corridors. 4. Action to be taken by State Government: The dept dealing with Health in the state government shall be primarily responsible for implementing the provisions of these rules in coordination with other central/state government departments and various other stakeholders. The secretary in-charge of Health shall take following steps. 9 Give wide publicity to the provisions of the rules; also put it on the official website of the Department. 9 Ensure that all offices, Institutions, autonomous organization, including hospitals, Educational Institution/ Medical/Dental/ Nursing Colleges etc. under the Health/Medical Education Department and any public sector undertaking, follow the rules i.e. display of boards, identification of persons to whom a compliant of violation is to be lodged. 9 Send communications to all state government departments, institution etc. in the state. o To ensure that attached/subordinate offices, Autonomous organization & PSU’s under the respective department(s) comply with the law. o That those in-charge or responsible for any public place implement the smoke-free rules. 4o That all departments identify the person(s) to whom any complaint about violation(s) can be reported. (A fact sheet indicating the steps to be taken by an organization is annexed) 9 Send communications to all the heads of central government departments in the state like Railways, Customs and Central Excise, Defense Establishments, AG Office, Doordarshan, All India Radio, CPWD, Airports Authority, etc. for implementing the provisions of the rules. 9 Send specific communications to Secretaries of Education Dept, Tourism dept, Transport Dept, Municipal Corporations as under: o To Education Secretary (and /or Medical Education secretary) to make all the school, colleges including Medical, Dental, Nursing, Paramedical Colleges, universities including deemed universities to display the boards as per specification and follow the other provisions of the rules. o To Transport Secretary for ensuring that the boards are displayed in all public conveyances under govt and private sector and also at the bus stops & bus terminals. o To head of the Municipal Corporations to ensure that the provisions of the Act is implemented in the area under his jurisdiction. o To Tourism Secretary To Inform all concerned in charge of places commonly frequented by tourists that they have to follow the rules and ensure that those places are smokefree. To ensure tourist are duly informed-through portals/websites, brochures and pamphlets about the provisions of the rule. 5 To provide smoke free environment in all hotels/restaurants as laid down in the Rules To inform that hotels/restaurants having 30 or more rooms/ or 30 or more seating capacity may create a designated smoking area / space as per the specifications. To ensure that the boards as per the requirement are prominently displayed in all tourist spots including in hotels/restaurants/pubs/bars/coffee shops etc. 9 Communicate to all district collectors the details of the provisions of the rules and action to be taken. 9 Sensitize the representatives of Hotels/ Restaurants, Private workplaces, shopping malls, cinema theaters, Industry / factories about the provisions of the rules and set up a mechanism for monitoring implementation. 9 Establish a coordinating mechanism by way of setting a state level task force/steering committee under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary/Secretary Health with representatives of all the major departments of State/Central Govts, other stakeholder and Civil Society. Also to establish Distt. Level committee under the chairmanship of District Collector with Chief Medical Officer (Dist Nodal Officer for Tobacco Control) as member Secretary. 5. Way forward for Enforcement 9 Sensitize, train and empower the law enforcers i.e. Police, Food & Drug Inspectors and other the authorized officers, as notified by the central Govt vide notification dated 30th May, 2008. 9 The State Govt. may also consider notifying additional authorized officers for implementing the provisions of the rules. 69 Set up flying squads for monitoring, enforcement and compliance. 9 Setting up toll-free help line / online reporting system may also be considered. 9 Establish a mechanism for issue of challan or compounding of offence. The options available, based on the experience of a few States are: ¾ OPTION – 1: to empower the authorized officers to compound the offence and impose appropriate fine upto Rs. 200 on the violators and recover the fine on the spot. A specimen copy of the receipt is at figure -3 ¾ OPTION – 2 : to permit the authorized officers to issue challans with the direction that the offender pays the fine at the designated court or treasury on any given/fixed day(s) as may be decided by the State Government. The state government may also constitute mobile courts/special magistrates. The specimen copy of challan is at figure – 4. Or combination of both the options as may be decided by the State Government. 9 The Health Department has to print the numbered receipt book (s) and challan book(s) for distribution to various authorized officers for ensuring proper accounting of fines imposed on the offenders. The challan may contain two part, one to be issued to the offender and the other to be retained by the authorized officer who has to deposit the fine and the book to the health department. 79 There are different models of channelising the funds collected through fine. ¾ OPTION – 1 : create a separate head of account as has been done by Gujarat Government under the department of Health in which the fine collected by various agencies/officers are deposited. This will enable Deptt. of Health to use the fund for tobacco control activities. The head under which the fine is to be credited may be indicated at the bottom of the receipt itself. ¾ OPTION – 2: the fine collected by various agencies may be deposited to a miscellaneous account of department of Health. In case the states have a separate account for National Tobacco Control Programme in the Health Society, the funds may be deposited in this account. It is necessary for the state government to lay down detailed guidelines for ensuring accountability for the amount collected as fine. 86. Other Measures: 9 Highlight successes and failures of every department/organization. 9 Provide for non-monetary incentives such a commendation letters, etc. 9 Mainstream the Rules and regulations in regular training/Orientation of officers and staff working in any ‘Public place’. 9 Encourage the vast majority of non smokers, to recognize their right to life and healths - through media campaigns, school curriculum etc. 9ANNEXURE Steps for Enforcement by Dept /Institutions Fact Sheet 9 Display boards as per specifications in non smoking areas. 9 Notify and display the name of a person to whom a complaint may be made, in case someone is found violating the law. 9 Train and inform the persons within the institutions responsible for implementing the act, including their duties, responsibilities under the law. The consequence of non-compliance is clearly spelt out. Also, train the enforcers about the mechanism of issuing challan /compounding of offences and imposing fine. 9 Educate the staff about the provisions of the smoke-free rules. 9 Constitute a core group/task force for regular monitoring, surprise checks to and ensure monitoring & compliance. 9 The funds collected by compounding the offence may be deposited in the account as specified by the department of Health 10Figure - 1 Design of the signage Specification of the board 1. The board shall be of a minimum size of 60 cm by 30 cm of white background 2. It shall contain a circle of no less than 15 cm outer diameter with a red perimeter of no less than 3 cm wide with a picture, in the centre, of a cigarette or beedi with black smoke and crossed by a red band. 3. The width of the red band across the cigarette shall equal the width of the red perimeter. 4. The board shall contain the warning “No Smoking Area – Smoking Here is an Offence”, in English or one Indian language, as applicable. Figure - 2; Specimen If your find anybody smoking please report to Name:…………………………….. Designation: ……………….. Telephone no:……………. 11Figure – 3 : Prototype of a receipt 12Figure – 4: Prototype of a challan Book No. ……… Serial No……….. The ‘Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003’ 1. Name and Address of the accused person ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 2. Scene of the offence with date, time and place. ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 3. Particulars of offence under Act/ Rules. ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 4. Where as you are hereby prosecuted for the offense described above, you are required to attend the court of name & address ………………….. place ……….& time ………. ..AM on (date) …… answer the said charges unless otherwise ordered by the court. Signature/left thumb impression of the accused Signature of the witness Name and address of the issuing authority. http://www.ceeri.res.in/om/STEP%20BY%20STEP.pdf

The Nation interest has necessity of conservation of trees and greenery for protection of the environment.

GYAN LAKSHAY (NGO) is active in Jawala Puri, Sunder Vihar, New Delhi-110087, past five years in maintaining friendly interaction among likeminded people and providing selfless service to the civil society. The GLNGO recently planted about 300 trees and shrubs in the area, with the help of the Volunteers. The GLNGO members and their families could often be seen checking and nurturing these trees. The intensive greenery drive of the GLNGO inspired even road walkers and nearby CWC units to join hands in this noble cause. 

The fact that cutting of more than 15cm diameter branches of green trees is a punishable offence. The Nation interest has necessity of conservation of trees and greenery for protection of the environment.

Your MLA fund report card on signboards

NEW DELHI: Now, you don't need to fret and fume about your local MLA's accountability. If you want to know how your MLA has spent funds allocated to him /her under the local area development (LAD) scheme, you need not even file an RTI plea . All you have to do is look around for his 'report card' in the neighbourhood. The information will be up on a signboard installed at a prominent location in the area. 

This will be done in compliance with the February 10 order of the Central Information Commission. The CIC order followed a complaint filed under Section 18 of the RTI Act by one Anjali Bhardwaj and 317 citizens from SFS flats in Sheikh Sarai . The complainants had acknowledged that information was available on the government website in English, but they contended it won't be accessible to the common man. Keeping in view the aam admi's right to access information easily , the panel issued directions to erect boards with details of expenditure of MLA funds for public scrutiny . 

"A signboard of appropriate dimension will be installed, mentioning details of expenditure of the current year and of the previous year of the MLA," central information commissioner Shailesh Gandhi said. Though the government was supposed to put up boards by March 15 and submit a compliance report by March 25, it is still dragging its feet. 

The first set of signboards will start coming up later this week. The urban development department plans to complete installation by end of the month. The department has identified offices of the deputy commissioners, schools and hospitals where the boards will be installed.

"The board shall also mention the exact link /URL of the department website where information can be accessed. No acronym /abbreviation should be used. Information will be displayed in Hindi and shall be installed at a location having maximum public view in each constituency," the CIC order stated. The boards will not only list expenditure details, but also give information on names of projects, the agency which carried out the work, the contractor and the date of commencement and completion of work.

These boards will be maintained and updated every year, within six months of the closure of the previous fiscal, by the head of the public authority, or the officers so directed by him in writing. 

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Your-MLA-fund-report-card-on signboards/articleshow/9574341.cms?intenttarget=no

MCD School records open to public scrutiny once every month

CENTRAL INFORMATION COMMISSION

Club Building (Near Post Office)

Old JNU Campus, New Delhi - 110067

Tel: +91-11-26161796

Decision No. CIC/SG/C/2011/000930/14501

Complaint No. CIC/SG/C/2011/000930

Complainant                                      :  Mr. Saurabh Sharma,

                                                               C-7/E, D.D.A Flats, Munirka,

                                                               New Delhi-110067

Respondent                                        :  The Additional Commissioner (Education)

                                                               Municipal Corporation of Delhi

                                                                 Education Department,

                                                               15th Floor, Civic Centre, Minto Road,

                                                               New Delhi – 110 001

Complaint filed on                              :           08.06.2011     

Hearing Notice Issued on                   :           18.08.2011                                                     

Date of Hearing                                  :           08.09.2011

Facts arising from the Complaint:

The Complainant has filed the present Complaint under Section 18 of the RTI Act (hereinafter ‘the Act’), with the Commission, contending that certain categories of document including the manuals mandated under Section 4 (1) (b) of the Act 2005,  should be available in hard copy at the school.  It is further contended that these documents should be available for inspection suo moto, as the Education Department of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi runs and maintain a large number of schools in the city, they should have all the mandated information mentioned in Section 4, in hard copy at the school premise for the benefit of the beneficiary community. This will be of immense help for them in ensuring transparency and accountability of the functioning of schools. He has forwarded a list of documents that should be available for inspection and the request is reproduced below:-

1.     Admission records

2.     Students’ attendance records

3.     Teachers’ attendance records

4.     Budget Allocations, Sanction issued and Expenditure incurred

5.     Expenditure on Educational Tours, Mid Day Meals, V.K.S/SMC, Sanitation, and CEP heads.

6.     Records of disbursements made to students on account of Scholarships, Uniforms, Books, and all other incentives given under any scheme.

7.     Copies of Circulars/Notifications/Orders received from Education Department & other Departments/Authorities from time to time.

8.     Various Registers like inspection Register, Visitor Register, Movement Register

9.     General Inspection of the infrastructural facilities – like drinking water, toilets, classrooms etc.

Relevant Facts emerging during Hearing:

The following were present:-

Appellant: Mr. Saurabh Sharma and Ms. Aheli Chowdhury.

Respondent:  Mrs. Kanta Rani Kumar, ADE; Dr. Chandra Bhan, DDE (Coordination); Municipal Corporation of Delhi

The Commission has heard the Respondents and the Appellant. The Respondents state that the admission records can be made available for inspection, as well as the student’s attendance. The teacher’s attendance records/register is also available. Budget allocations are at the HQ and Zonal Level, the budget sanctioned to the schools and the expenditure therein is available at the school level.  For educational tours and mid-day meal can be made available for inspection at the school. The records for PTA are also maintained at the school. It is further stated that for sanitation, only one staff is deployed.  Records of disbursements made to students on account of Scholarships, Uniforms, Books which are free of cost, and all other incentives for winter clothes/shoes etc given under any scheme are also available. Copies of Circulars/Notifications/Orders received from Education Department & other Departments/Authorities from time to time are sent directly to the schools and should be available there. Various Registers like inspection Register, Visitor Register, Movement Register are also at the school level. Inspections are done once a year and also surprise inspection records are also available. General Inspection of the infrastructural facilities – like drinking water, toilets, classrooms, black boards etc are undertaken through a specific proforma which covers a variety of areas, this record is available. In addition the Respondents also state that there are also records of complaints made by Principal/incharge  of each school to senior authorities.

Section 4 (1) (a) of the Right to Information Act, 2005, which is a mandatory obligation, reads as -“maintain all its records duly catalogued and indexed in a manner and the form which facilitates the right to information under this Act and ensure that all records that are appropriate to be computerised are, within a reasonable time and subject to availability of resources, computerised and connected through a network all over the country on different systems so that access to such records is facilitated”. The Commission appreciates that the Department has made improvements and is moving towards  better transparency.

The Right to Information is a fundamental right of the citizens which has been codified by the RTI act, No. 22 of 2005. The act envisions that all citizens shall receive information primarily by suo motodisclosures by various public authorities as prescribed by section (4) of the act.                Disclosures in accordance with the said Section are crucial to ensure transparency and accountability in institutions.  This would reduce the load of RTI Applications being filed with each institution as information would be freely available to citizens and they would not have to apply for it. It further envisages that citizens would be required to specifically ask for information under section (6) only in a few cases. Citizens have been demanding that certain information is essential to them and should be available proactively in form of public notice boards, display boards etc. The Commission feels that certain information which is essential for public safety should be published proactively.

Decision:

The Complaint is allowed. 

In view of the aforesaid and from the facts before it, the Commission under the powers vested in it by section 19 (8) (a) of the RTI act, hereby directs the following:-

The Following categories of documents shall be available for inspection from the last working day of October 2011, pertaining to each particular school for the on-going academic session.

1.     Admission records

2.     Students’ attendance records

3.     Teachers’ attendance records

4.     Budget Allocations, Sanction issued and Expenditure incurred

5.     Expenditure on Educational Tours, Mid Day Meals, V.K.S/SMC, Sanitation,  

6.     Records of disbursements made to students on account of Scholarships, Uniforms, Books, and all other incentives given under any scheme.

7.     Copies of Circulars/Notifications/Orders received from Directorate of Education & other Departments/Authorities from time to time, which are available with the concerned school.

8.     Various Registers like inspection Register, Visitor Register, Movement Register, Complaint File

1.     All schools of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will have the above noted documents/registers available for inspection by citizens on the last working day of each month, from 10.30 AM to 12.30 PM for First/Morning/General Shift and 3.30 PM to 5.30 PM for the Second/Evening shift schools respectively. This information regarding inspection timings shall be available on the notice boards of all schools.

1.     A sign board of appropriate dimension shall be installed, mentioning the Name(s), designation(s), contact details including the office address/room number, as the case may be who can be contacted for inspecting records including the inspection timings as mentioned in point 1 above. No acronym/abbreviation should be used.  This information shall be inscribed in Hindi and shall be installed at a location having maximum public view at the concerned school. The same shall also be published on the website of the Corporation also.

The Additional Commissioner (Education), shall send a consolidated report of compliance of the above directions to this Commission by 15thNovember 2011. The report may be sent to rtimonitoring@gmail.com, with a copy to the Complainant.   

This decision is announced in open chamber.

Notice of this decision be given free of cost to the parties.

                                                                                                                          Shailesh Gandhi

                                                                                                          Information Commissioner

                                                                                                                   8th  September 2011