In a reply to the RTI Application bearing Registration Number ICAOI/R/E/23/48863, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has provided a detailed and categorical clarification on the process followed while dealing with RTI applications seeking certified copies of answer sheets.
This reply is significant, as many students have long-standing doubts regarding suo motu verification of marks, rechecking, and revaluation when certified copies are sought under the RTI Act, 2005.
Information Sought in the RTI Application#
The RTI application sought clarity on the following points:
The internal process carried out by ICAI when an RTI application is made for certified copies of answer sheets, including details of:
- Suo motu verification of marks
- Reverification of marks
- Rechecking of answer sheets, if any
Whether, while providing certified copies under RTI, the scanned copy / PDF is supplied as evaluated, or whether any rechecking or suo motu verification of marks is carried out before supply.
If suo motu verification is carried out, whether it is done:
- For all RTI applications, or
- On a sample basis.
If ICAI carries out suo motu verification of marks, the statutory provision / regulation / council decision under which such verification is undertaken.
Reply by the ICAI#
In its reply, ICAI has clearly stated that:
Revaluation of answer books is not permitted under the Chartered Accountants Regulations, 1988.
However, verification of marks is carried out to ensure:
- All answers are evaluated
- No question or part remains unvalued
- No totaling errors exist
- Marks awarded are correctly carried forward to the cover page
- Handwriting consistency of the candidate
Before providing certified copies or inspection of evaluated answer books, verification of marks is carried out suo motu for all RTI applications, not on a sample basis.
Such suo motu verification is carried out under Regulation 39(4) of the Chartered Accountants Regulations, 1988.
This reply puts to rest the misconception that ICAI reduces marks or arbitrarily alters results during the RTI process.
RTI Online Reply Screenshot#
Conclusion#
This RTI reply brings much-needed transparency and clarity for students who seek certified copies of answer sheets under the RTI Act.
It confirms that:
- Marks are verified, not revalued
- Verification is mandatory and uniform
- The process is backed by statutory regulations
Once again, the RTI Act, 2005 proves to be an effective tool in dispelling doubts and ensuring accountability in examination processes.
An informed student is an empowered student.
