Table of Contents
Section 14 — Removal of Chief Information Commissioner or Information Commissioner
In one line: Section 14 prescribes the removal process for CIC Commissioners — only by the President, after a reference to the Supreme Court that proves misbehaviour or incapacity. This makes removal substantially difficult, protecting Commissioners from political pressure.
Key points
- Grounds: proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
- Procedure: President refers the matter to Supreme Court for inquiry.
- SC holds inquiry; reports back to the President.
- President then removes if SC upholds the ground.
- Interim suspension possible pending inquiry.
Legislative history
No amendments.
Rulings and references
- Section 14 has not been the basis of a completed removal in 20 years — a testament to the protection it affords.
Practical note
Citizens cannot directly invoke Section 14. It is a structural safeguard, not a citizen remedy. If a Commissioner acts with bias, the remedy is a review petition or writ under Article 226.
Call to action
For drafting RTIs or appeals engaging this section, use the First RTI template or the First Appeal template. See How to fill an RTI application for structural help.
Related
Sources
- Right to Information Act, 2005, Section 14.
- RTI (Amendment) Act, 2019 (where applicable).
- DPDP Rules, 2025, notified 14 November 2025 (where applicable).
- Department of Personnel and Training, Guide on the RTI Act, 2005.
Last reviewed on: 21 April 2026