RTI

Information needed for resolution of a legal dispute

Appellant sought information about Foreign Currency payment made in Indian Rupees to the amount of INR 70,000 around October 1978. The SBI informed that the information could not be retrieved being 40 years old. The appellant argued that the proof of the averred remittance to her father was crucial in the light of a property dispute pending disposal before court of law. The CIC held that the issue for consideration before it is grant of relief as per the RTI Act and does not extended to the resolution of legal disputes.

Comments

It has been argued before the CIC that information needed for dispensation of justice should be provided as the same is in public interest. It has also been contended that till the destruction memo is produced, the responsibility of maintaining the records rests with the public authority.

Citation: Rajinder Kaur Johal v. State Bank of India, Second Appeal No. CIC/SBIND/A/2024/122968; Date of Decision: 07.11.2025

Dr Anuradha Verma (dranuradhaverma@yahoo.co.in) is a RTI Consultant currently working with IIM Vishakhapatnam. She has co-authored the books PIO’s Guide to RTI and Right to Information – Law and Practice. Her weekly article is being published since 2008 on this site. She offers consultancy on RTI matters and third party audit to individuals / organisations. Her other articles can be read at the website of RTI Foundation at the link https://www.rtifoundationofindia.com