Appointment of Information Commissioners: HC dismisses petition as premature

Kochi: Kerala High Court on Wednesday dismissed petitions challenging the procedure adopted by government for appointment of State Chief Information Commissioner and commissioners.

The Court also vacated the status quo ordered earlier while considering petitions filed by applicants Somanathan Pillai and D. B. Binu.

The Court observed that the petitions were premature as no appointment had been made. The matter was now before Governor for decision.  No writ could lie as no order has been issued.

The petitioners could approach the courts again, if needed, after the Governor issued the orders. The petitioners wanted the appointments to be done through a proper selection procedure and in a transparent manner.

The three member selection committee headed by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has recommended former Director General of Police Vinson M. Paul for appointment as Chief Information Commissioner and five others for the post of Information Commissioners.