Punjab Information Commission Takes Strict Action Against Ludhiana MC Official in RTI Case
The Punjab State Information Commission (PSIC) has taken an unprecedented step by issuing a bailable warrant against a senior official from the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC). This decisive action follows a pattern of non-compliance in a Right to Information (RTI) appeal, where the official repeatedly failed to attend scheduled hearings, stalling the legal process for months.
Official Faces Legal Consequences for Ignoring Summons
The warrant targets Kuljit Singh Mangat, who holds the dual role of public information officer (PIO) and assistant town planner (ATP) in the MC's building branch for Zone D. According to State Information Commissioner Harpreet Singh Sandhu, the case originated from an appeal filed by Jasvir Singh of Guru Nanak Nagar. Mangat missed four consecutive hearings and did not respond to a prior show-cause notice, prompting the commission to escalate the matter.
Under the provisions of the RTI Act, the PSIC possesses the authority to enforce attendance through police intervention when officials neglect their duty to provide information. Commissioner Sandhu emphasized that such delays obstruct citizens' fundamental right to transparency, which is a cornerstone of democratic governance.
Police Directed to Ensure Warrant Service and Compliance
In a move underscoring the seriousness of the issue, the commission has mandated the Ludhiana police commissioner to personally oversee the execution of the warrant. Commissioner Sandhu stated, "The commissioner has been ordered to not only serve a copy of these warrants on Kuljit Singh Mangat but also provide strict instructions for him to appear before the commission on the next scheduled date." This directive aims to ensure accountability and prevent further evasion.
Mangat is now legally obligated to present himself before the PSIC on March 11. Failure to comply could lead to additional disciplinary measures or financial penalties as stipulated by the RTI Act. The act requires PIOs to furnish requested information within 30 days, and persistent non-attendance at hearings is viewed as a significant impediment to justice.
Broader Implications for RTI Enforcement in Punjab
This case highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing RTI laws across India, particularly in urban governance contexts. Key aspects of the situation include:
- The rarity of bailable warrants being issued by information commissions, signaling a tougher stance on non-compliance.
- The role of police intervention as a last resort to compel official attendance and uphold transparency.
- Potential repercussions for other officials who might disregard RTI obligations, setting a precedent for stricter enforcement.
As the March 11 hearing approaches, this incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of accountability in public administration. It reinforces the PSIC's commitment to safeguarding citizens' right to information, ensuring that officials adhere to legal mandates without delay.
