TN Information Commission Flags Officials on Missing Land Records

Speedy Summary:

• The Tamil Nadu Details Commission (TNIC) raised concerns over the disappearance of files from revenue records, urging disciplinary action against those responsible.
• TNIC directed the Commissioner of Revenue Governance adn Disaster Management to instruct Collectors to develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for safeguarding land-related documents like pattas.
• The issue arose from an RTI petition by P. Anbuvel seeking access to a missing file concerning a joint patta cancellation and related orders issued in 1996, which officials could not locate.
• State Information Commissioner R. Priyakumar rejected explanations provided by public authorities, calling their conduct “nonchalant” and “careless.” He demanded further searches for the missing file or investigation into its disappearance through File Movement Registers.
• Senior Revenue Department officials were instructed to implement robust protocols covering record custody, tracing missing files, disciplinary measures for lapses, and handover procedures during staff transfers or retirements.
• TNIC recommended reconstructing lost files where necessary and filing police complaints with requisite non-traceable certificates from investigating officers if reconstruction proves impractical.
• Officials failing to comply with these directions face penalties up to ₹25,000; compliance reports are due at an adjourned hearing on October 30.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The TNIC’s decisive move underscores the critical need for better governance in managing public records-a fundamental requirement under administrative frameworks globally-to ensure transparency and accountability in government operations. A systemic lapse allowing routine claims of “missing files” not only undermines trust but also obstructs citizens’ rights under legislation like the RTI Act meant to empower individuals through access to information.

This directive could have broader implications for governance practices across India as proactive measures like SOP implementation drive institutional reform aimed at preventing future failures while penalizing negligent behavior reinforces individual accountability among officials handling sensitive records such as pattas. Reconstruction of lost data alongside non-traceable certificates suggests pragmatic steps addressing current lapses without halting service delivery.

efficient documentation safeguards would likely translate into more reliable access mechanisms within other government departments while also reducing bureaucratic hurdles-making this case especially relevant given how pivotal land-related disputes can be across India for ownership stability at micro-economic levels spanning farmers/urban development zones.

read More: Published – September 08, 2025 12:19 am IST