Delhi High Court to Rule on PM Modi's Degree Disclosure: A Verdict Awaited

The Delhi High Court is poised to deliver its verdict on a contentious legal battle involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi's academic credentials. The case centers on a challenge by Delhi University to a 2016 Central Information Commission (CIC) directive that called for the disclosure of Modi's bachelor's degree information.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the central government, contended that the CIC's directive should be annulled. He argued that while the academic records could be reviewed by the court, they should not be made publicly available, asserting that such disclosure could serve those with ulterior publicity or political agendas. Mehta raised concerns that a broad application of the Right to Information (RTI) Act might disrupt the operations of public entities.

On the other hand, proponents of the CIC's order argue that universities, as public entities, should consider degree records as public documents. The Delhi High Court had initially stayed the CIC order in 2017 following Delhi University's appeal, emphasizing the need to balance institutional fiduciary responsibility with public curiosity lacking substantial interest.

(With inputs from agencies.)