Ranchi: The Left parties, CPI(M) and CPI, have welcomed the Jharkhand government’s decision to initiate the process of filling long-vacant posts in the State Information Commission, albeit after considerable delay. However, they have raised serious concerns over the reported names forwarded for approval, alleging that most of the candidates are directly affiliated with political parties.
In a joint statement, CPI(M) State Secretary Prakash Viplav and CPI State Secretary Mahendra Pathak said that such appointments would be in violation of the directions of the Supreme Court, which emphasize the selection of qualified and independent individuals.
They pointed out that in a state like Jharkhand, where large-scale land acquisition has intensified following the auction of coal blocks under the aegis of the Central government, the role of the Information Commission becomes crucial. Due to its prolonged inactivity, information related to land acquisition often does not reach raiyats, people’s organisations, and political stakeholders in time, leading to arbitrary actions by companies and the erosion of land rights.
The Left leaders demanded that Information Commissioners be appointed strictly in accordance with the eligibility criteria laid down under Section 15 of the Right to Information Act. They also urged the state government to withdraw recommendations of individuals with direct political affiliations for these posts.
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