Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has declined to intervene in the disciplinary action recommended by the Karnataka Information Commission (KIC) against CL Shivakumar, secretary of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) and an appellate authority under the RTI Act.
Background of the Case
Shivakumar challenged two orders passed by the KIC. The first, issued in January 2026, imposed a cost of Rs 25,000 for his failure to provide information. The second, in February 2026, recommended disciplinary action against him.
The petitioner argued that he assumed charge as BDA secretary on May 8, 2025, and the order directing the provision of information predated his tenure.
Court's Ruling
Rejecting his argument, Justice Suraj Govindaraj noted that from May 8, 2025, until the KIC passed its orders, there was ample time for Shivakumar to act on the earlier directives. Therefore, his conduct could not be condoned.
The judge also granted the BDA the liberty to initiate action against Shivakumar's predecessor for alleged failure to perform duties.
Case Details
Suresh Chandra, the applicant in the case, had not received the information he sought. He approached the BDA secretary, who serves as the first appellate authority. As the proceedings remained unresolved, Chandra approached the KIC for relief.
Due to the BDA secretary's repeated non-appearance, the KIC imposed a penalty and directed the initiation of disciplinary proceedings.
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