Central Information Commission (CIC)

• Central Information Commission (CIC) is a statutory body established under the Right to Information Act (2005) to ensure citizens’ access to information.
• The Commission comprises a Chief Information Commissioner and up to ten Information Commissioners.
• Members are appointed by the President on the recommendation of a committee consisting of
  • The Prime Minister,
  • Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and
  • a Union Cabinet Minister.
• The Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners are appointed by the President for a tenure of three years.

Powers and Functions of Central Information Commission

• The Commission has the powers of a civil court, including summoning attendance, compelling evidence, and requisitioning public records.
• During inquiries, the Commission can examine records under public authority control and its decisions are final and binding.
• The decisions of the Commission are final and binding.

Significance

• The CIC plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
• The Supreme Court’s affirmation of the CIC’s powers reinforces its autonomy and effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate.

Latest News:

• 17 July 2024:
  • The Supreme Court has upheld the Central Information Commission’s (CIC) powers to constitute benches and frame regulations, ensuring its autonomy and effective functioning.