RTI Denied: Central Information Commission Backs Secrecy on Russia Oil Imports Data

The Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) refused to provide the information, stating that the country-by-country and company-wise crude oil import details are commercially confidential and cannot be shared under Sections 8(1)(d) and 8(1)(e) of the RTI Act, 2005.

However, the total import quantity and value can be obtained from the PPAC website. The First Appellate Authority upheld this decision. During a recent hearing, the appellant stated that it had not been provided with information and wanted to understand how the country was performing in this area.

In its interim decision, the Central Information Commission stated that disclosing the information sought could adversely impact the country's strategic and economic interests and could also affect relations with other countries, as the information relates to geopolitical relations.

The Commission also issued a show-cause notice to the relevant PPAC official for his absence from the hearing despite prior notice. The Commission further noted that no information regarding the RTI tab was available on the respondent's website and directed them to comply with Section 4 of the RTI Act.