1. The information was wrongly denied even though it falls under Section 2(f) of the RTI Act.
2. The PIO is required to provide the information in the form it is maintained by the public authority.
3. As per Sections 2(f), 2(j), 4(1)(a), and 4(1)(b) of the RTI Act, providing such information is mandatory.
4. Denial of information is only permitted under Sections 8 and 9, but in this case, it was withheld on false grounds.
5. As per Sections 7(1) and 7(9), and GAD circulars dated 31.03.2008 and 10.08.2009, information must be provided within 30 days and in the requested format.
6. The information was suppressed to cover up the misconduct and failure of the PIO.
7. The FAA should take action on the PIO’s failure and submit related documents (RTI application, appeal memo, PIO reply, FAA order) to the Information Commissioner.
8. The FAA must ensure implementation of its order and verify whether the applicant received the information.
9. If the FAA is also negligent, disciplinary action can be recommended to the Information Commissioner under Section 19(8).
10. To ensure accountability, penalties and disciplinary action should be recorded in the PIO’s service book and confidential report.