S.19(8)(b) RTI Act | No Compensation Can Be Granted Unless Actual Loss Or Detriment Due To Delayed Information Shown: Patna High Court

The Patna High Court has interpreted Section 19(8)(b) of the RTI (Right to Information) Act, stating that no compensation can be granted for delayed information unless actual loss or detriment is demonstrated. Section 19(8)(b) empowers the Information Commission to award compensation to the complainant for any loss or detriment suffered due to a delay in receiving information. The High Court's ruling clarifies that the mere delay in providing information is not sufficient grounds for compensation; the complainant must provide evidence of actual harm or loss suffered as a direct consequence of the delay. This interpretation sets a higher bar for claiming compensation under the RTI Act, requiring tangible proof of the adverse impact of the delayed information.