Consider the following statements: The Central Information Commission ...
The Commission can order inquiry into any matter if there are reasonable grounds (suo-moto power).
The Commission has the power to secure compliance of its decisions from the public authority.
This includes:
(a) providing access to information in a particular form;
(b) directing the public authority to appoint a Public Information Officer where none exists;
(c) publishing information or categories of information;
(d) making necessary changes to the practices relating to management, maintenance and destruction of records;
(e) enhancing training provision for officials on the right to information;
(f ) seeking an annual report from the public authority on compliance with this Act.
Consider the following statements: The Central Information Commission ...
Explanation:
The Central Information Commission (CIC) is an independent and autonomous body established under the Right to Information Act, 2005. It is responsible for ensuring transparency and accountability in the functioning of public authorities. Let's analyze each statement given in the question:
Statement 1: The Central Information Commission can order an inquiry into any matter if there are reasonable grounds.
The CIC has the power to order an inquiry into any matter if there are reasonable grounds. This means that if the CIC receives a complaint or comes across any information suggesting misconduct, non-compliance, or violation of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, it can initiate an inquiry to investigate the matter. The inquiry can be conducted by the CIC itself or by a designated officer.
This statement is correct.
Statement 2: The Central Information Commission has the power to secure compliance of its decisions from the public authority.
The CIC has the power to secure compliance of its decisions from the public authorities. Once the CIC passes a decision or order, it becomes binding on the public authority. The public authority is required to comply with the decision within the stipulated timeframe. If the public authority fails to comply, the CIC can take further action, including imposing penalties or recommending disciplinary action.
This statement is correct.
Conclusion:
Both statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Central Information Commission has the power to order an inquiry into any matter if there are reasonable grounds, and it also has the power to secure compliance of its decisions from the public authority.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 'C' - Both 1 and 2.