The SEBI Appellate Authority reaffirmed that it is not obligated to create or compile information as per the RTI Act. This decision pertains to vague and confidential queries submitted through the RTI process.
SEBI Not Required to Collate Information Under RTI Act
The SEBI Appellate Authority has ruled that the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is not obliged to create or collate new information under the RTI Act when faced with vague or confidential queries. The Authority’s decision underscores the limitations of RTI applications concerning the public authority's disclosure obligations.
The appeal, which was rejected on these grounds, highlighted the importance of formulating precise requests for information to ensure compliance with the RTI framework. The decision clarifies that public authorities are not responsible for compiling information that is not previously documented.
Legal professionals advocating for transparency through the RTI Act should take note of this ruling, as it emphasizes the necessity of clear and specific information requests to facilitate access to public information without overburdening public authorities.
Citations
- SEBI Appellate Authority Order (2026) 2 SEBI 45