Pakistan Information Commission issued show cause notice to Chairman National Highways Authority over non-compliance and failure to appear before the Commission in response to an appeal seeking information.
Despite issuance of multiple notices regarding an appeal filed under the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, the respondent failed to comply with the Commission directives which authorize Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) to serve show cause notice in the matter, it has been learnt.
The Commission was hearing an appeal filed by a citizen who alleged that the National Highways Authority (NHA) failed to provide requested information under the provisions of the Right of Access to Information Act. In response to this appeal, the Commission issued three separate notices on March 18, April 14, and May 21, 2025 respectively. The Commission has sought written reply and attendance of designated Public Information Officer (PIO) before the forum while issuing these repeated notices to Chairman NHA.
Despite confirmed delivery of the latest notice (verified via Pakistan Post’s tracking system), no representative from NHA appeared before the Commission. In its order dated July 16, 2025, the Commission stated that the continuous non-appearance by the NHA demonstrates a willful disregard for the Commission’s directives.
In view of this, the Commission has issued show cause notice to the Chairman, NHA under Section 20(1)(f) of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017. The notice requires the Chairman to explain why proceedings should not be initiated against him for non-compliance.
Additionally, the Commission has directed the NHA to submit written reply to the pending appeal and ensure appearance of the NHA’ PIO at the next hearing, scheduled for August 20, 2025.
It has been stated the PIC committed to upholding the citizens’ constitutional right to access public information and expects full cooperation from all public bodies.
