CIC allows revelation on Agusta Westland deal after seeing MoD files in camera

Here's the order:

Files and documents relating to termination of Agusta Westland deal were shown to the Commission in camera on 15/06/2016. Commission examined the application of Section 8(1)(a) and (h) in claiming exemption from disclosure of files and documents by the CPIO.

CPIO submitted that file notings, correspondence and document are closely interlinked with Arbitration proceeding which is ongoing in this case and stake of Govt is involved if Govt won the case, our country will receive huge amount of money. The 4 disclosure of file noting correspondence and document will jeopardise the case. Hence it is exempt under section­8(1)(a) & (h).

CPIO mentioned that he is ready to provide the termination order. The heading of the termination order is as under:

"It is pre contract integrity pact dated 03/10/2008 & Agreement bearing No. AIR HQ/S96062/6/ASR dated 08/02/2010 between the GOI & Agusta Westland Int Ltd.''

Decision

Commission while applying severability clause under Section 10 of RTI Act in respect of file notings/documents/correspondence/agreement directs the CPIO to provide only the termination order to the appellant within 15 days of the receipt of this order.