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.

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.

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.