PIO denied info citing 8(1)(j), what to do next?
I filed an RTI application with the local municipality to get the list of employees and their salaries. The PIO denied the information citing section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, saying it's personal information. I don't think this is correct as the salaries are already publicly available. What can I do next? Should I file an appeal?
Know the practical answer?
Share the record to ask for, the authority to approach, or the next appeal step.
Discussion
4 repliesYou can file a first appeal under section 19(1) of the RTI Act, stating that the information is already publicly available and therefore, section 8(1)(j) is not applicable.
The PIO is correct in denying the information. Section 8(1)(j) clearly states that personal information cannot be disclosed.
You can also try to get the information under section 10 of the RTI Act, which allows for severability of information. If the PIO can separate the personal information from the rest, they may be able to provide you with the list of employees and their designations.
You should have filed the application under the right category, now you have to file a fresh application.