CBI and RTI- EMAAR case During the last few months we have asked a few information under the RTI from the Central Bureau of Information (CBI) about a few matters of grave concern to the entire Nation. And it is then that we realized how much CBI believes in opaqueness and non-transparent governance, even in matters that are of grave concern and have nothing to do with affecting their investigation. Such an attitude clearly smacks of something being fishy. When I raised this attitude before a few friends, there were varied response from them. One of them said very vehemently-“Giving all information might prove dangerous for the Nation. It's a good policy. I agree with CBI policy.” Another friend went to the extent of saying- “Before asking for any information RTI should make it clear as to for what purpose the information is asked for and for what utility. One should not be at a loss to understand intention of RTI.” But well, there were people who also believed that- “agreed that at times CBI has to be discreet for security, but it’s well-known that our country thrives on EVASION. Right from taxes to evasion of responsibilities by authorities. And CBI seems to be aiding and assisting these evasions!” We also seem to agree to the third view. And there are reasons for that. These days so have hoopla is being made about the huge irregularities in the Commonwealth games. Some two months back we had asked a few questions from CBI under the RTI about the EMAAR-MGF company whose name is so much in news these days. And the questions were very basic in nature. All it wanted to know was whether the CBI was present along with ED during the raids done on EMAAR-MGF in December 2009 and at what places. We sent this letter on 24/05/2010. Then an Appellate letter was sent on 25/06/2010. This was followed by a letter from a Joint Director of CBI dated 06/07/2010 saying that they had not received the first letter. We have sent another letter on 14/07/2010. And we are still waiting for the reply. That too in a matter of so great importance. Could there be a need for more examples about how the CBI is helping in hiding facts and aiding irregular practices? Dr Nutan Thakur, Convener, National RTI Forum, Lucknow # 94155-34525
