Navigating the Right to Information Act: Husband's Victory in Obtaining Wife's Income Details Amidst Matrimonial Battle
Introduction: In a recent order dated September 27, 2023, the Central Information Commission (CIC) addressed a unique case where a husband embroiled in a matrimonial dispute sought his estranged wife's income details through a Right to Information (RTI) application. The CIC's decision, rendered by Information Commissioner Saroj Punhani, shed light on the delicate balance between personal privacy and the right to information. Background: The saga began in October 2022 when the husband, amidst the ongoing maintenance case, filed an RTI application seeking details of his wife's gross and net income. His intention was to present this information before the court during the pendency of the case. Initial Denials and Appeals: The Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) initially denied the request, citing Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, which restricts the disclosure of personal information that does not serve public interest. The husband's subsequent appeal also faced rejec...