New Delhi, August 20, 2025 – The Delhi High Court is set to deliver its judgment today on a plea by Delhi University (DU) challenging a 2016 Central Information Commission (CIC) order that directed the disclosure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s undergraduate degree records.Key Points:Background of the Plea: On December 21, 2016, following an RTI application by an individual named Neeraj, the CIC permitted the inspection of records of all students who passed the BA examination in 1978, the year PM Modi completed his degree. However, on January 23, 2017, the Delhi High Court stayed this order following DU’s plea.
DU’s Argument: Delhi University argued that it holds the information in a fiduciary capacity and that disclosing private information under the RTI Act without public interest, driven merely by curiosity, is unjustifiable. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing DU, sought to quash the CIC order but stated there was no objection to showing the 1978 BA degree records to the court, provided they are not made public, citing potential political motives or publicity-seeking behind the request.
CIC’s Stance: The CIC’s 2016 order emphasized that universities are public institutions, and degree records maintained in their registers qualify as public documents. RTI applicants argued that degrees are public acts under the RTI Act and cannot be considered private information.Fflirtygo Men Graphic Print Cotton T-Shirt & Short Set for Men/Boys
Court Proceedings: A single-judge bench of Justice Sachin Datta, after hearing detailed arguments from both sides, reserved the judgment on February 27, 2025. The verdict is scheduled to be pronounced today around 2:30 PM.
Origin of the Controversy: The issue stems from an RTI application by Neeraj seeking inspection of the 1978 BA degree records. The matter has drawn political attention, with some alleging political motives behind the request.also read: "Cabinet decision to provide internal reservation: Chief Minister to make the announcement today; Ministers welcomed the move — here are the details."
Significance: The judgment will determine the fate of disclosing PM Modi’s degree records and could set a significant precedent regarding the balance between public documents and private information under the RTI Act. DU’s argument focuses on privacy and fiduciary duty, while the CIC and RTI applicants emphasize public interest, particularly concerning the educational qualifications of elected officials.