The Delhi High Court has set aside a directive of the Central Information Commission (CIC) that sought disclosure of the Prime Minister’s academic records. With this ruling, the Prime Minister’s degree certificates will not be made public under the Right to Information Act.

The case arose after applications were filed seeking details of the Prime Minister’s educational qualifications. The CIC had earlier directed the concerned authorities to furnish the records, but the order was challenged before the High Court.

The court observed that the demand for such disclosure did not fall within the scope of larger public interest and held that personal information of this nature is protected under privacy provisions of the RTI Act. It further noted that educational documents of an individual cannot be sought without showing a direct link to public interest.

The ruling has sparked debate, with some opposition leaders criticising the move and insisting that transparency in public life should extend to educational records of top leaders. Supporters, however, have welcomed the judgment, saying it upholds the right to privacy and prevents misuse of the RTI process for political purposes.

The decision is expected to bring a halt to years of speculation and legal battles over the Prime Minister’s academic background.