Roop filed an application under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, seeking detailed information from the Telangana State Legal Service Authority (TSLSA) regarding the allocation and utilization of funds in various legal

Roop filed an application under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, seeking detailed information from the Telangana State Legal Service Authority (TSLSA) regarding the allocation and utilization of funds in various legal aid services. The PIO of TSLSA denied the information on the grounds that it was exempt under Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, which pertains to personal information. Roop challenged this denial, asserting that the information sought was in public interest and related to the transparency and accountability of a public authority. Upon refusal by PIO for disclosing the information, gradually, the matter reached the Central Information Commission (CIC). Roop argued that the information requested was essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in the functioning of TSLSA, and that withholding such information was against the spirit of the RTI Act. Before the CIC could make a ruling, both parties agreed to mediation as suggested by the court to avoid prolonged litigation. A neutral mediator was appointed to facilitate discussions between Roop and TSLSA. One of the parties alleged that the mediator has not maintained confidentiality with regard to the mediation process and transparency was not maintained. In the background of relevant case law: Also state if the information under the RTI Act can be supplied in these circumstances.