Laxmikanth Test: State Information Commission - UPSC MCQ

The Commission submits an annual report to the State Government on the implementation of the provisions of this Act. The State Government places this report before the State Legislature.

They are appointed by the Governor on the recommendation of a committee consisting of the Chief Minister as Chairperson, the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly and a State Cabinet Minister nominated by the Chief Minister.

The State Chief Information Commissioner and a State Information Commissioner shall hold office for such term as prescribed by the Central Government or until they attain the age
of 65 years, whichever is earlier. They are not eligible for reappointment.

The State Information Commission is a high-powered independent body which interalia looks into the complaints made to it and decide the appeals. It entertains complaints and appeals pertaining to offices, financial institutions, public sector undertakings, etc., under the concerned state government.

The Governor can also remove the State Chief Information Commissioner or any State Information Commissioner on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity4 . However, in these cases, the Governor has to refer the matter to the Supreme Court for an enquiry. If the Supreme Court, after the enquiry, upholds the cause of removal and advises so, then the Governor can remove him.

- The State Information Commissioner’s salary and service conditions are akin to those of an Election Commissioner and the Chief Secretary of the State Government.
- This parity ensures independence and maintains the dignity of the office.
- The Chief Secretary is the topmost executive official in the state.
- Equating the Information Commissioner with these roles underlines the importance of transparency and accountability in government.

As per the RTI Act 2005, There was no provision for Joint State Information Commission other than Central Information.

The number varies from state to state. But state information commissioners can not be more than 10 State Information Commissioners (SIC).

During inquiry of a complaint the commission can examine any information which is in the custody of a public authority.

Salary allowance and other services conditions of the State Chief Information Commissioners are similar to the Election Commissioner of India.