Consider the following statements: While inquiring into a complaint, I

Consider the following statements:
While inquiring into a complaint, Information Commissions have the power to

  • summon and enforce attendance of persons.
  • compel them to give evidence on oath and produce documents or things.
  • require discovery and inspection of documents.

Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

1 only
2 only
3 only
1, 2 and 3
This question was previously asked in
UPSC Combined Section Officer – 2024
All three statements are correct. While inquiring into a complaint, Information Commissions possess the powers of a Civil Court, which include summoning persons, compelling evidence and production of documents, and requiring discovery and inspection of documents.
Section 18(3) of the RTI Act, 2005, grants the Central Information Commission and the State Information Commissions, while inquiring into any matter under the section, the same powers as are vested in a Civil Court while trying a suit under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908. These powers include:
Statement 1 is correct. Summoning and enforcing the attendance of persons.
Statement 2 is correct. Compelling them to give oral or written evidence on oath and to produce documents or things.
Statement 3 is correct. Requiring the discovery and inspection of documents.
Other powers include receiving evidence on affidavit, requisitioning public records, and issuing summons for examination of witnesses or documents.
These powers akin to a Civil Court enable the Information Commissions to effectively investigate complaints and appeals filed under the RTI Act, ensuring that public authorities and PIOs comply with the provisions of the Act.
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