T’gana HC criticizes Info Commission’s mass notice

The Telangana High Court has raised serious concerns over how the State Information Commission is handling a large number of pending RTI (Right to Information) appeals filed by activist Vaddam Shyam. Justice T Madhavi Devi suspended a notice issued by the Commission that asked Shyam to appear for hearings on 403 second appeals he had filed earlier.

The court noted that the Commission acted unfairly by sending a single notice for all 403 cases without mentioning individual case numbers or specifying which cases would be heard on that day. Grouping all the appeals together, the court said, it was procedurally improper and put the appellant at a disadvantage.

When the Commission’s lawyer argued that it was common practice to list multiple appeals for hearing every day, the court disagreed. Justice Madhavi Devi remarked that it is neither practical nor acceptable to hear so many cases at once. She also criticized the Commission for sending vague notices, leaving the petitioner uncertain about which cases would actually be addressed.

Agreeing with Shyam’s concerns, the court suspended the original notice and instructed the Information Commission to issue fresh notices. These new notices must clearly list individual case numbers and the specific hearing dates for each appeal, ensuring proper procedure and fairness.

This decision highlights the court’s insistence on transparency and clarity in handling RTI matters. It also underscores the challenges faced by citizens in pursuing their right to information when procedural lapses occur. The ruling ensures that activists like Vaddam Shyam can have their appeals heard in a structured and fair manner, without being overwhelmed by administrative confusion.

The case serves as a reminder for public authorities to follow proper procedures while dealing with RTI petitions, and reinforces the judiciary’s role in protecting citizens’ rights.