The Delhi High Court has overturned the Chief Information Commission’s directive to Delhi University to disclose Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bachelor’s degree. Justice Sachin Datta ruled that there is no requirement to reveal the academic record, leaving open the option for parties to approach the Supreme Court.
The controversy, which began with a 2016 RTI application, centers on PM Modi’s graduation record from DU in 1978. While the CIC had ordered disclosure, emphasizing transparency for public figures, Delhi University argued that releasing the data would violate the privacy of thousands of students and could establish a precedent affecting public institutions.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the university, stressing that some applicants were driven by political motives or publicity. On the other side, activists argued that the RTI Act does not restrict access based on intent and that the Prime Minister’s qualifications are of legitimate public interest. The court’s ruling highlights the ongoing tension between public transparency and individual privacy in sensitive cases.