This case provides valuable insights into understanding PIO and FAA roles in handling public information requests; notably, the RTI appeal filed by Yogi M P Singh regarding the disc…

Closure of posting details for police personnel in Mirzapur, UP, seeks comprehensive information. This includes not only the postings of police officers but also intricate details about the roles and responsibilities of the IPS officers operating in that area. The appeal specifically requests the identity of the nodal officer handling these postings. It also seeks information about the Public Information Officer (PIO) and First Appellate Authority (FAA) involved in this matter. The request outlines the original appeal made by Singh. The PIO’s response cited information exemption under Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, indicating a refusal to provide the sought-after details based on privacy concerns.

Subsequently, the parties lodged the first appeal with the Uttar Pradesh State Information Commission. This process includes a series of hearings, deliberations, and the issuance of subsequent orders pertaining to the case. This appeal emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in public services while navigating the complexities of the Right to Information Act. Additionally, it provides contact details for the concerned officials and references procedural guidelines along with relevant sections of the RTI Act. Furthermore, it includes links to related blogs that discuss discrepancies and necessary corrections noted on the RTI portal, raising concerns among the citizens.

This is a notice regarding a second appeal filed with the Uttar Pradesh Information Commission under Section 19(3) of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005; consequently, we emphasize the importance of your attention to this matter.

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Here’s a breakdown

• UTTAR PRADESH INFORMATION COMMISSION: Consequently, this government body is responsible for hearing appeals related to RTI requests in Uttar Pradesh, India.
• Second Appeal: An applicant submits this appeal subsequently after the first appeal to the Public Information Officer (PIO) fails to yield a satisfactory resolution. Consequently, the applicant files it under Section 19(3) of the RTI Act.
• Right to Information Act, 2005: This Indian law effectively empowers citizens with the right to access information held by public authorities.
• Appeal Registration Number – A-20240701864: This represents the unique ID assigned to this specific appeal, thus facilitating easier tracking and reference. (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)
• File Number – S09/A/1808/2024: Another identification number, possibly for internal tracking.
• Appeallent’s Particulars: Information regarding the individual who filed the appeal, including essential details and context.
• Applied Date : 24/07/2024 10:37:53 AM: I formally submitted the date and time when the appeal. Note that this date is in the future, so there may be an error.

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🚨 RTI Appeal Against SP Office Mirzapur: A Case of Withheld Information

By Yogi M. P. Singh
📅 Filed on: 4th March 2024
📍 District: Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh

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🔍 Background of the RTI Application

On March 4, 2024, I submitted an RTI application (Reg. No. SPMZR/R/2024/60021) to the Superintendent of Police Office, Mirzapur, seeking detailed posting information of key police personnel.
Furthermore, this application played a crucial role in enhancing transparency and accountability within the police department, thereby enabling citizens like me to stay informed about the allocations and movements of officers who maintain law and order. (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)
Moreover, I made the request under Section 6(1) of the RTI Act, 2005, which empowers individuals to request information from public authorities, ultimately fostering a greater understanding of governmental functions and ensuring that citizens can actively participate in the democratic process.
By seeking this information, I aimed not only to shed light on the operational dynamics of the police force but also to promote better governance in Mirzapur.

📌 Key Information Requested: (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

1. Posting details of IPS and PPS officers including their contact information.
2. Details of the Nodal Officer and Public Information Officer (PIO).
3. Clarification on the roles and postings of officers not listed in the ADGP personnel records.

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📤 Status of the RTI Request (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

Despite the statutory 30-day period, no information was provided regarding the status of the request made. Instead, the request was merely forwarded to the PIO on April 18, 2024, with no further action taken to address the inquiry or provide any clarity on the matter.
This lack of response not only raises concerns about the adherence to the timelines stipulated by law but also leaves the requester in a state of uncertainty, wondering if their concerns will ever be acknowledged or resolved.
The absence of timely communication is frustrating and undermines trust in the public information process.

👤 PIO Details: (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

• Name: Om Prakash Singh
• Designation: ASP Operation
• Phone: 9125608556
• Email: aspopmzp@gmail.com

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📞 First Appeal and Its Outcome

Due to the persistent lack of response from the concerned authorities regarding my previous request, I subsequently filed a First Appeal on April 29, 2024, under Section 19(1) of the RTI Act.
This crucial step was necessary to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of my application, especially because I was eager to receive the information that I firmly believe is my right to obtain. (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)
Furthermore, the delay in communication raised my concerns, which ultimately prompted me to utilize the provisions of the RTI Act, empowering citizens to seek information and challenge any inaction from the public authorities.

👨‍⚖️ First Appellate Authority: (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

• Name: Abhinandan Singh (SP Mirzapur)
• Email: spmzr-up@nic.in
• Phone: 9454400299

However, the FAA upheld the PIO’s inaction. It cited Section 8(1)(j)—an exemption clause that does not apply to the requested information. This information is public in nature.
This decision has sparked considerable debate among advocates for transparency and accountability. Many argue that the information in question is crucial for ensuring that the rights of individuals are upheld. They believe that the functioning of public authorities remains transparent. (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

Furthermore, the application of such exemption clauses can often lead to a lack of accountability. Consequently, this undermines public trust in governmental processes and the institutions meant to serve the public interest. Moreover, without access to this information, citizens and stakeholders find it increasingly challenging to engage with and scrutinize the actions of public offices. This engagement is essential for maintaining a vibrant democracy. Thus, the implications of the FAA’s ruling extend far beyond this singular issue; they reflect a broader concern about the balance between privacy and public interest in governance.

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🧾 Second Appeal Filed

Consequently, I filed a Second Appeal on July 24, 2024, with the Uttar Pradesh Information Commission (Appeal No. S09/A/1808/2024). This was after exhausting all possible avenues for resolution through initial inquiries and direct communications. (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)
This decision was not made lightly. It involved careful consideration of the information that had been withheld and the implications for transparency and accountability.
The appeal aims to seek clarity and prompt action on the matter at hand. This emphasizes the importance of adhering to the principles of the Right to Information Act, which is designed to empower citizens and promote open governance.

📋 Grounds for Appeal: (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

• Denial of information without valid exemption.
• Misuse of Section 8(1)(j) to withhold public officer details.
• Failure of both PIO and FAA to uphold transparency.

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⚖️ Commission’s Interim Order

On 28th November 2024, Hon’ble State Information Commissioner Shakuntala Gautam issued an order: recognizing the importance of transparency and accountability within the public sector.
This order aims to strengthen the provisions of the Right to Information Act.
It ensures that citizens have unhindered access to vital information. This access empowers them to engage actively in governance.
The Commissioner emphasized the need for Public Information Officers to be well-trained and responsive. (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)
Their role is crucial in bridging the gap between government authorities and the public they serve.
This promotes an informed society that holds its leaders accountable.

“The PIO is directed to provide point-wise information to the appellant before the next hearing date and submit a written explanation with proof of dispatch.”

📅 Next Hearing Date: 15th January 2025

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🧩 Conclusion (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

This case highlights a systemic issue in the implementation of the RTI Act at the district level. It reveals a troubling pattern that undermines the fundamental goals of transparency and accountability.
Despite clear legal provisions, delays and denials continue to obstruct the citizen’s right to information. This often leaves individuals in the dark regarding crucial decisions that affect their lives and communities.
This persistent failure not only erodes public trust in governmental institutions. It also highlights the urgent need for reformative measures to ensure that the spirit of the RTI Act is genuinely upheld. Citizens must be empowered to exercise their rights effectively.

🔔 What’s Next? (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

I will present my case at the upcoming hearing and demand:

• Full disclosure of the requested information.
• Accountability for the delay and misuse of exemption clauses.

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📎 Supporting Documents (Understanding PIO and FAA Roles)

• Copy of RTI Application
• First Appeal
• Second Appeal
• Commission’s Order

PIO says information of PIO, FAA and nodal officer is exempted from disclosure under 8 (1) (j)

Office of Superintendent of Police Mirzapur rectified name of PIO, FAA and nodal officer on RTI portal

Details of PIO, FAA and nodal officer on RTI portal is not matching with ongoing police personnel