Islamabad — The Pakistan Information Commission has issued a show cause notice to the President of Aga Khan University after the university failed to comply with an earlier order to release documents related to a leaked examination paper held on August 6, 2023.
The notice was issued under Section 20(1)(f) of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017 and seeks an explanation as to why proceedings should not be initiated against the President for non-compliance with the Commission’s directive.
The Commission had previously, in an order dated 11-08-2025, determined that Aga Khan University qualifies as a public body under Section 2(ix)(d) of the RTI Act and directed the institution to disclose details of its internal inquiry into the paper leak.
An appellant had requested certified copies of the investigation report, the inquiry committee’s recommendations, the names of committee members with their terms of reference, and details of employees and outsiders allegedly involved. The request also sought information on disciplinary and legal action taken, any complaints filed with law enforcement agencies, and measures adopted to prevent future leaks.
No representative appeared for Aga Khan University at the hearing, although the university submitted a written reply asserting it does not qualify as a public body under Section 2(ix) of the RTI Act. The appellant countered by noting that Aga Khan University was established by the Aga Khan University Order of 1983, amended in 2002, creating a statutory corporate body with perpetual succession, powers to hold property and to sue or be sued, and that the institution has received land and other benefits from the federal government while operating under regulatory licences.
After reviewing submissions and documents, the Commission concluded that Aga Khan University falls within the statutory definition of a public body and found no legal justification to withhold the requested information. The appeal was allowed and the Commission directed the President of Aga Khan University to furnish all requested documents and details to the appellant and to the Commission within ten days.
The show cause notice under Section 20(1)(f) underscores the Commission’s enforcement role under the RTI Act and signals continued scrutiny on disclosure and transparency obligations of institutions deemed public bodies.
