Difference between Central Information Commission and State Information Commission
The Central Information Commission (CIC) and State Information Commissions (SICs) are integral components of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 in India. They serve to promote transparency and accountability in governance. Here are the key distinctions between them:
1. Jurisdiction
- CIC: Oversees the implementation of RTI at the national level, dealing with requests pertaining to central government bodies and agencies.
- SIC: Addresses RTI requests related to state government entities and local bodies within a specific state.
2. Composition
- CIC: Composed of a Chief Information Commissioner and up to 10 Information Commissioners appointed by the President of India.
- SIC: Consists of a Chief Information Commissioner and a number of Information Commissioners as determined by the respective state government.
3. Appointment Authority
- CIC: The President appoints the members based on the recommendations of a committee including the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and a Cabinet Minister.
- SIC: Appointed by the Governor of the state, following a similar process but specific to the state context.
4. Functions
- CIC: Handles appeals against decisions made by central public authorities and ensures compliance with the RTI Act at the national level.
- SIC: Manages appeals concerning state public authorities, addressing local issues and concerns.
5. Penalties
- CIC: Can impose penalties on officials of central government bodies for non-compliance or delaying responses.
- SIC: Similarly, can penalize officials of state government bodies for failing to comply with RTI provisions.
Understanding these differences is crucial for effectively navigating the RTI framework in India.