Madhya Pradesh Information Commission asks for plantation data

BHOPAL: Post an RTI filed by a person who sought details regarding the plantation of 50 lakh saplings in Satna circle in 2016-17, the Madhya Pradesh Information Commission (MPIC) directed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to submit a report within a week to the applicant.

Rahul Singh, information commissioner, said, “Despite the directions given, on May 24, by the Commission to provide information to the applicant, the circle had made it clear that it was holding back information sought under the RTI Act that was against the law.” The Commission issued a notice to Rajiv Mishra, Public Information Officer (PIO) and the Conservator of Forests, Satna Circle, asking why a penalty of ₹25,000 should not be imposed and disciplinary action initiated against him.

Virendra Singh Parihar, an advocate, lodged the application, on January 30, 2017, seeking documents and records of range-wise break-up of the saplings planted in the circle. The application further sought copies of cashbooks and vouchers, and details of fertilizers used for plantation.

After being denied information he appealed to the Commission claiming that the PIO had quashed his application on the grounds that it sought information in more than one area.

Singh said, “The department was trying to conceal information which makes up its working plan which is submitted to the Central Forest Department and a committee of the Supreme Court.” Further Singh added, “Moreover according to sections 8(C)(D) of the Act, the application can’t be quashed on the ground mentioned”.