Swearing-In of Heeralal Samariya as Chief Information Commissioner of Central Information Commission

• Recently, Heeralal Samariya took the oath of office as the Chief Information Commissioner of the Central Information Commission (CIC) in a ceremony presided over by the President of India.

Overview of the Central Information Commission

• Established under the Right to Information Act, 2005, the Central Information Commission (CIC) holds jurisdiction over all Central Public Authorities. Its primary objectives include exercising powers granted by the RTI Act, 2005, investigating complaints from citizens (as per Section 18 of the RTI Act), adjudicating second appeals from citizens (as per Section 19 of the RTI Act), and fulfilling the duty of “Monitoring and Reporting” (Section 25 of the RTI Act).

Composition and Appointment

• The composition of the Central Information Commission comprises a Chief Information Commissioner and a maximum of ten Information Commissioners. These officials are appointed by the President of India based on the recommendations of a committee headed by the Prime Minister. The committee also includes the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister.

Eligibility Criteria

• Members of both the Central Information Commission and State Information Commissions are required to be individuals of eminence in public life, possessing extensive knowledge and experience in various fields such as law, science and technology, social service, management, journalism, mass media, or administration and governance. They cannot simultaneously hold positions as Members of Parliament or Members of the Legislature of any State or Union Territory. Additionally, they should not be associated with any political party, hold any office of profit, or engage in business or pursue a profession.

Tenure of Office

• The Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners serve a term of three years from the date they assume office.

Conclusion

• Heeralal Samariya’s appointment as the Chief Information Commissioner of the Central Information Commission signifies a crucial development in upholding transparency and accountability in government affairs. The CIC, established under the Right to Information Act, 2005, plays a pivotal role in ensuring access to information for citizens and overseeing various aspects related to the RTI Act. The composition, eligibility criteria, and tenure of office for members of the Commission are all designed to ensure that individuals of the highest caliber are entrusted with these vital responsibilities.