Central Information Commission
Mr.Vasu V M vs Ministry Of Communications And ... on 25 October, 2011
CENTRAL INFORMATION COMMISSION
Room No. 308, B-Wing, August Kranti Bhawan, Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi-110066
File No.CIC/LS/A/2011/001361
(Vasu V.M. -Vs- BSNL, Trivendrum)
Dated : 25.10.2011
This is in continuation of this Commission's proceedings dated 26.09.2011. As scheduled, the matter is called for hearing today dated 25.10.2011. The CPIO has not appeared before the Commission, as directed, but has sent a detailed representation. The only question for consideration is the supply of information to the appellant with delay of 83 days. The CPIO, in his written representation, has enumerated steps taken by him to collect the requisite information from various other offices which took time. Para 11 of his representation is extracted below :-
"11. In the circumstances it can be seen that the information sought by the appellant was not available with the CPIO but with other BSNL Offices with which extensive correspondences were made by the CPIO as evidenced by the documents marked. Further on account of organizational bifurcation/restructuring there was lack of clarity with regard to the section dealing with arbitration related to mobile connections which was finally sorted and update information furnished to the appellant. In view of the circumstances delineated above it is respectfully submitted that the delay caused is bonafide and justified and beyond the control of CPIO and hence the same may kindly be condoned."
2. We are broadly satisfied with the explanation given by the CPIO that he exercised due diligence in supplying the information by way of taking up the matter with other coordinate offices and collecting information from them which largely justifies the delay. Even so, delay of 83 days cannot be condoned. However, we are not inclined to inflict monetary punishment on the CPIO in view of the serious efforts made by him in collecting, collating and transmitting information as narrated in his representation. It would suffice if the CPIO is 'warned' to be careful in future.
3. The matter is decided accordingly.
Sd/-
( M.L. Sharma) Central Information Commissioner Authenticated true copy. Additional copies of orders shall be supplied against application and payment of the charges, prescribed under the Act, to the CPIO of this Commission.
( K.L. Das ) Deputy Registrar Address of parties :-
1. The DGM (NP&DI) & CPIO, BSNL, o/o the GM(NP) Consusmer Mobility, Mobile Services, Kerala Circle RTTC Campus, Kaimanam, Trivandrum-695054.
2. Shri Vasu V.M. Streyas(House), Purameri, Vatakara, Kozhikode District, Kerala.