After PM fiasco, PU to pull up staff for RTI discrepancies.

Indian Express; Tuesday,02 Aug 2011.

Chandigarh : In the wake of incomplete information, regarding doctorate degrees awarded by the Panjab University, being provided to an applicant under the Right to Information Act, the University authorities issued a circular to all the teaching departments, administrative branches and regional centres of the University on Monday. The circular states that if any delay is observed at any level, the concerned officer will be held personally accountable with penalty and even disciplinary action.

“It has been observed that appropriate regard is not being paid to the sacredness of the Right to Information Act and replies are not sent in time to the applicants, thus causing discomfiture and even penalties are imposed in some cases. In majority of cases, the dealing officials of various branches are putting up obscure and incomplete replies. Even if the information is not available with the University, the application is required to be sent to the concerned quarters with a proper copy to the applicant as well,” stated the circular that was issued today. It was further added that if any delay is observed at any level, the concerned officer or official will be held personally accountable. If any penalty is imposed because of such inaction or delay, the same will be recovered from the concerned officer or official, besides other disciplinary action, as may be deemed fit.

Recently, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s name was not included in the list of those honoured with doctorate degrees by the University. The Prime Minister had been awarded the Doctor of Laws in 2009.