Context: BCCI under RTI Act
Central Information Commission (CIC) held that Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not a “Public Authority” under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 as it is neither created by law nor substantially financed by the government.
Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005
- Ensures transparency and accountability in governance.
- Derived from Article 19(1)(a) of Constitution — Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression.
Public Authority — Section 2(h)
Includes bodies:
- Created by Constitution or law
- Formed through government notification/order
- Owned, controlled, or substantially financed by government
CIC Observation on BCCI
- BCCI is registered under Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975.
- Not created by Constitution, legislation, or government order.
- Not substantially financed by government funds.
- Hence, not a “Public Authority” under Section 2(h) of RTI Act.
Central Information Commission (CIC)
- Statutory body under RTI Act, 2005.
- Highest appellate authority for RTI matters at Central level.
Consists of:
- Chief Information Commissioner (CIC)
- Up to 10 Information Commissioners (ICs)
Other details:
- Appointed by President on recommendation of committee headed by Prime Minister.
- Handles RTI appeals and complaints.
