The Supreme Court has ruled that the Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta’s Special Police Establishment (SPE) is not an 'intelligence and security' organisation, and is therefore subject to the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The court upheld a December 20, 2021 judgment of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, dismissing the appeal against it.
Background of the Case
The case originated from a petition seeking information under the RTI Act from the Lokayukta SPE. The organisation had claimed exemption from disclosure, arguing that it functioned as an intelligence and security agency. The High Court had rejected this claim, leading to the appeal before the Supreme Court.
Supreme Court's Observation
While delivering the judgment, the bench clarified that the SPE's primary role is to investigate corruption cases, not to gather intelligence or provide security. The court noted that the RTI Act is designed to promote transparency and accountability, and exemptions must be narrowly construed.
The judgment reaffirms that citizens have the right to access information from public authorities, including anti-corruption bodies, unless they fall under specific exemptions. The court emphasized that the Lokayukta SPE does not meet the criteria for an intelligence or security organisation under the RTI Act.
This decision is expected to enhance transparency in the functioning of the Lokayukta and strengthen public trust in anti-corruption mechanisms.
