UPSC not obligated to disclose civil services exam scores under RTI: SC

New Indian Express: New Delhi: Monday September 17, 2018.

In February, the apex court had noted that disclosure of marks could have severe negative impact on the evaluation process and not only the prestige but the very integrity of the system could be compramised.

The court dismissed a bunch of review petitions filed against the order in February and reaffirmed its judgment setting aside the Delhi High Court ruling and dismissing all the writ petitions filed by civil services aspirants seeking disclosure of marks under RTI.

In February, the apex court had noted that disclosure of marks could have severe negative impact on the evaluation process and not only the prestige but the very integrity of the system could be compromised.

Weighing the need for transparency and accountability on the one hand and requirement of optimum use of fiscal resources and confidentiality of sensitive information on the other, we are of the view that information sought with regardto marks in civil services exam cannot be directed to be furnished mechanically,” the Supreme Court had held.

The court also underscored the difficulties expressed by UPSC that disclosure could lead to unnecessary resentment, litigation and revealing the identity of evaluators, thereby putting in peril the integrity of the process and inviting hordes of litigation.