Raj Kumar Goyal Appointed Chief Information Commissioner

Retired IAS officer Raj Kumar Goyal was sworn in as the Chief Information Commissioner of the Central Information Commission on Monday. The appointment marks a key administrative development in India’s transparency and information governance framework.

Oath Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan

President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office to Raj Kumar Goyal at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Vice President C P Radhakrishnan was present on the occasion. The President’s office confirmed the ceremony through an official statement, noting the formal assumption of charge by the new Chief Information Commissioner.

Administrative and Service Background

Raj Kumar Goyal is a retired IAS officer of the 1990 batch. He superannuated as Secretary in the Department of Justice under the Ministry of Law and Justice. During his career, he also served as Secretary (Border Management) in the Ministry of Home Affairs, gaining experience in governance, legal administration and internal security-related matters.

Appointment under RTI Act Provisions

The President appointed Raj Kumar Goyal as Chief Information Commissioner on the recommendations of the committee constituted under Section 12(3) of the Right to Information Act, 2005. His appointment took effect from December 15. He succeeded Heeralal Samariya, who previously held the post.

What to Note for Exams?

• The Chief Information Commissioner heads the Central Information Commission.
• Appointments are made under the Right to Information Act, 2005.
• Raj Kumar Goyal is a 1990-batch IAS officer.
• He succeeded Heeralal Samariya as CIC.

Role of the Central Information Commission

The Central Information Commission is the apex body for adjudicating appeals and complaints under the Right to Information Act. It plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability and effective implementation of the RTI framework across public authorities in India.