Central Information Commission Dismisses RTI Complaints Filed by Minor Due to Lack of Guardianship Proof
Can 4-year-old file RTI? Why Central Information Commission rejected 5 complaints filed in child’s name
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
The Central Information Commission dismissed five RTI complaints filed in the name of a four-year-old girl due to the absence of proof of guardianship. The complaints sought information from the Animal Welfare Board of India but failed to meet legal requirements for representation by a guardian.
- 01CIC ruled that RTI applications filed on behalf of minors must be supported by proof of guardianship.
- 02Five RTI complaints were filed against the Animal Welfare Board of India regarding animal welfare issues.
- 03The complaints were dismissed for lack of locus standi and absence of valid representation.
- 04The RTI Act allows minors to seek information but requires proper authorization.
- 05The complainant failed to provide necessary documentation during the hearing.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Central Information Commission (CIC) recently dismissed five Right to Information (RTI) complaints filed in the name of a four-year-old girl against the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). The complaints sought information regarding animal welfare, including fitness certificates and transportation permits. The CIC noted that while the RTI Act of 2005 does not prohibit minors from filing requests, it mandates that such proceedings must be supported by proof of guardianship or authorization. In this case, the complaints were filed by the girl's grandfather, who failed to provide any documentation to establish his guardianship or authority to act on her behalf. The CIC concluded that without valid representation, the complaints were not maintainable, emphasizing the need for legal capacity in such matters. This ruling highlights the importance of proper representation in RTI proceedings involving minors.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
This decision reinforces the necessity for proper guardianship documentation in legal proceedings involving minors, ensuring that their rights are protected while adhering to legal standards.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Should the rules for filing RTI applications on behalf of minors be revised?
Connecting to poll...
More about Central Information Commission
CIC Advocates Inclusion of Sub-Caste Data in UPSC Results for Enhanced Affirmative Action
The Indian Express • May 5, 2026
Delhi High Court Affirms Spousal Privacy in Financial Disputes Under RTI Act
Business Standard • May 4, 2026
Delhi High Court Protects Husband's Income Privacy in RTI Case
The Hindu • May 1, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.