Getting tax refunds from the income-tax (I-T) department is a hassle for many citizens, who either do not receive it or get it only after many years. In a landmark ruling, the Central Information Commissioner has passed an order which said information on refunds is covered under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

The Central Information Commissioner while passing the order, said "To deny the appellant information sought by him under clause (e) or clause (j) of section 8(1) is nothing but misappreciation of law."

"The information sought by the appellant is covered under section 2(f) of the RTI Act and he has a right of seek information under section 2(j) thereof. It is clarified that the appellant has not sought any information which the public authority is holding in fiduciary capacity," M L Sharma, CIC, said in his order.