PIC Orders OGDCL to Disclose CSR Fund Details in Key Ruling on Public Access to Information

ISLAMABAD: In a significant move to uphold citizens’ right to information, the Pakistan Information Commission has directed the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) to disclose comprehensive details about its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Fund. The order was issued on Tuesday in response to an appeal filed by a citizen under the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017.

During the hearing, Advocate Abdul Basit represented OGDCL and submitted a written reply claiming exemption from disclosure of the requested information under Section 16(c) of the Act. The order stated that the reply had already been shared with the appellant on March 11, 2025. Despite no response from the appellant, the Commission decided to adjudicate the matter on its merits.

The appellant had sought detailed information regarding the allocation and utilization of the CSR Fund. This included the policy, rules, and regulations governing the fund, criteria for its allocation, and identification of its beneficiaries. Additionally, the appellant requested information on the sectors and areas chosen by OGDCL for CSR activities and the benefits derived from the fund distribution. The appeal also sought details on any vendors hired under CSR initiatives and their qualifications, as well as a year-wise and district-wise breakdown of fund distribution over the past five years.

The Commission referenced Section 5(g) of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, which requires public bodies to publish and upload detailed budget information online. This includes proposed and actual expenditures, revenue targets, and any budget revisions.

Rejecting OGDCL’s plea for exemption, the Commission ruled that the requested information does not fall within the scope of any exemptions provided in the Act. The Commission held that the information must be disclosed and proactively published as per Section 5(g).

The Managing Director of OGDCL has been directed to provide the complete information sought by the appellant and submit it to the Commission within ten days of receiving the order. The Commission has adjourned the matter to June 25, 2025, for submission of a compliance report.

In a notable observation, the Commission emphasized the importance of the requested record, highlighting its value for public uplift. The Commission also sent copies to the Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources, and the Secretary to the Prime Minister, noting that OGDCL’s CSR initiatives serve as a significant means to address issues of deprivation and unrest in concerned regions. It further stressed that such efforts merit attention at senior government levels and should be publicly highlighted for the awareness and reassurance of the people of Pakistan.