RTI Act Exemption on Oil Import Data
The Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) under the Oil Ministry has stated that data on oil imports from Russia to India cannot be disclosed under the RTI Act due to its "commercial and confidential" nature. The Central Information Commission supports this decision, citing strategic and economic interests.
Details of the RTI Plea
- The RTI plea requested details of crude oil imported from Russia between June 2022 and June 2025.
- Specific company-wise breakdown was sought for firms like IOCL, BPCL, HPCL, ONGC Videsh, Reliance Industries, and Nayara Energy.
- The Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) denied the request, invoking exemptions under section 8(1)(d&e) of the RTI Act 2005.
- The First Appellate Authority upheld this decision.
Commission's Interim Decision
The Commission noted that disclosing the requested information could harm India's strategic and economic interests and affect international relations. It deemed the exemption valid under Sections 8(1)(a) and 8(1)(d) of the RTI Act.
Show-Cause Notice and Website Compliance
- A show-cause notice was issued to the PPAC official for absence during the hearing.
- The Commission highlighted the lack of information on the PPAC's RTI website and directed compliance with Section 4 of the RTI Act.
Recommendations for Information Disclosure
Under Section 25(5) of the RTI Act, the Commission recommended improved suo motu disclosures, including:
- Publishing details of the organization's structure, functions, and duties.
- Listing powers and duties of officers and employees.
- Providing a directory of officers and employees.
- Disclosing monthly remuneration and compensation systems for officers and employees.
