Punjab Information Commission Imposes Rs 25,000 Penalty on Former Officer for RTI Non-Compliance
The Punjab State Information Commission (PSIC) has taken a firm stance against bureaucratic defiance by imposing a penalty of Rs 25,000 on a former block development and panchayat officer (BDPO) from Nabha in Patiala district. This action follows the officer's repeated failure to comply with directives in a Right to Information (RTI) case based in Chandigarh, highlighting a significant breach of transparency protocols.
Chronicle of Defiance and Disrespectful Conduct
The commission's order stems from a complaint filed by Gurpreet Singh under the RTI Act, which exposed a prolonged pattern of what the PSIC described as "deliberate and disrespectful" behavior by the officer. According to official records, the public information officer-cum-BDPO ignored multiple summons and notices issued on February 11, 2025, and May 13, 2025, failing to appear or provide any response.
After the commission escalated the matter with a formal show-cause notice, representatives finally appeared on July 29, 2025. However, they were "not aware of the facts" and did not submit a substantive reply, further exacerbating the situation. At a subsequent hearing on March 12 of this year, the commission noted with concern that once again, no one appeared on behalf of the officer, and no reply to the notice was filed.
Commission's Stern Response and Administrative Measures
Expressing deep concern over what it termed a "defying attitude," the commission concluded that the PIO had "no respect for the orders of the commission." In response, the PSIC has directed the drawing and disbursing officer in Patiala to deduct the Rs 25,000 penalty directly from the salary of the former BDPO of Nabha. This amount must be deposited into the state treasury under the specified RTI Act fee head, ensuring accountability through financial repercussions.
Beyond the monetary penalty, the commission has recommended that the director of rural development and panchayats in Punjab take necessary administrative action against the officer. Additionally, it has ordered both the former PIO-cum-BDPO, who has since been transferred to SAS Nagar, and the current PIO to be personally present at the next hearing. This move aims to enforce compliance and prevent future instances of neglect in RTI matters.
Officials' Responses and Broader Implications
While the former PIO-cum-BDPO declined to comment on the penalty, the current in-charge, Jatinder Singh, stated, "We will look into the matter thoroughly and take appropriate action against the other officials too, if found guilty, for not giving information." This statement underscores a commitment to addressing systemic issues within the administration that may hinder transparency.
This case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of adhering to RTI regulations, which are designed to promote openness and accountability in governance. The PSIC's decisive action not only penalizes individual misconduct but also sets a precedent for enforcing compliance across Punjab's bureaucratic framework, potentially deterring similar behavior in the future.
