The attached order of
Central Information Commission is another significant step to usher in
greater transparency in Institute functioning. The ICAI denied
information under RTI to former CCM - Shashikant Barve, who had sought
several important details regarding to study circles, including as to
how many of them actually file accounts with ICAI and whether they are
merged with ICAI accounts etc.
While
denying this info, the ICAI claimed that study circles are "voluntary
organisations" and that the relationship between ICAI and CPE Study
Circles is only for limited purpose of "recognizing the CPE hours." Mr.
Barve took this matter in appeal to CIC and rightly argued that study
circles are nothing but an "extended arm" of the ICAI and that ICAI has
full control over them, right from granting approval to submission of
accounts to transfer of surplus to even the power to dissolve a study
circle.
The
CIC upheld Mr. Barve's contention and directed ICAI to furnish the
information sought by him. Hats off to Mr. Barve, who at the age of 62,
is still fighting hard for good corporate governance practices at ICAI.
Infact this issue was taken up by us at WIRC AGM in June, but we were
given a "wishy-washy" answer on how many study circles actually file
accounts with WIRC...
The
turn of events over the last fortnight is giving me some hope (
finally..) that if we keep this fight going, we shall one day (hopefully
soon ) succeed in our endeavour to bring in sweeping reforms in the
functioning of our alma-mater!
CIC Order - 2072 & 2074.pdf
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