Supreme Court – Upholds Kerala HC Order That Cochin International Airport Is a Public Authority Under RTI Act

Expert Analysis:

• The Supreme Court of India has upheld a Kerala High Court order declaring Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) a “public authority” under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, entitling citizens to seek information from the airport under the transparency law.

• The ruling confirms that CIAL, despite its corporate structure, performs public functions and is substantially financed and regulated, bringing it within the ambit of the RTI Act.

• The Supreme Court waived costs in the matter, emphasising the importance of access to information and judicial support for transparency in institutions serving public utility functions.