Political parties are autonomous voluntary organisations: CPI

Expressing surprise at the CIC's decision to bring political parties under the ambit of RTI Act, CPI today said parties are independent and autonomous and should have a right to privacy and confidentiality.
"Communist Party of India expresses surprise at the ruling of Central Information Commission (CIC) that all political parties are public authority under the RTI," the party said in a statement.
Maintaining that though it stands for transparency of funds of political parties, its source as well as expenditure, CPI said it does not agree with CIC's view that they are public authority.
"Political parties are independent, autonomous voluntary organisations. CPI is of the view that there should be right of privacy and confidentiality of party internal discussions and decisions," the party said.

At the same time, it maintained that those who are "non- party members" have no right to peep into minute's books, discussions, criteria of selection of candidates, or methods of promotions or disciplinary action.
Moreover, internal and sensitive information about the party can be misused by rivals to create problems to any political party, besides interfering into the private affairs of political parties, CPI said.
"CIC should reconsider its decision on this ruling. CPI will discuss with like-minded parties and decide the future course of action," the party said.