Activists seek Advani’s help for fair process

The Right to Information activists have sought help from the Opposition after the Congress government did not pay heed to their demand to make the selection process of the Chief Central Information Commissioner transparent, reports HT Correspondent.

The Right to Information activists have sought help from the Opposition after the Congress government did not pay heed to their demand to make the selection process of the Chief Central Information Commissioner transparent.

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The activists have alleged that there is intense lobbying for the post.

Demanding a transparent and participatory process for appointment, the RTI activists from across the country have asked Opposition leader LK Advani to boycott the selection committee.

A three-member committee of the Prime Minister, Opposition leader and the law minister select the CCIC based on the names short-listed by the DOPT.

The selection process is likely to be held in a day or two.

“We are disappointed with the government’s behaviour. If Advani boycotts the selection committee, the selection process would not be valid,” said RTI activist Krishnaraj Rao.

The letter says, “..please be a strong opposition, and not just a rubber stamp. Oppose arbitrary appointment of Central Information Commissioners. Boycott Selection Committee meeting until Government is honest and transparent”

On Wednesday, the Delhi High Court had dismissed the activists’ petition, asking to change the process of selecting the RTI chief.

The court said it had no jurisdiction to give directions to the government to change the procedure. It added that the request would have been valid if the CCIC was ‘appointed’ and not ‘selected’.