Bank of Baroda: A Former AGM’s Legal Fight on Promotion Issues with Help of RTI Documents

Promotion delays and lack of  transparency in administrative processes can sometimes lead to formal reviews in Public Sector Banks (PSB’s). In one such case, Radha Raman Tiwari, a senior former officer at Bank of Baroda (BoB), raised concerns over a deferred promotion and incomplete responses to his Right to Information (RTI) applications. The issue was later reviewed by the Central Information Commission (CIC) and the Gujarat High Court (HC).

Background of the Case
Radha Raman Tiwari, a former Assistant General Manager (AGM) at Bank of Baroda, was recommended for promotion to Deputy General Manager (DGM). However, the promotion was deferred, reportedly due to a pending vigilance clearance. In an effort to understand the delay, Tiwari filed several RTI applications requesting certified copies of relevant policy guidelines, internal communications, and actions taken by the bank following certain reports.

Image: RTI appeal on BoB’s legal approval, expenses, and CIC penalty disclosures.
Courtesy: Radha Raman Tiwari

CIC Proceedings and Observations:
Tiwari’s RTI, dated February 1, 2024, sought documents regarding administrative actions following a media article raising governance concerns. The Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) responded briefly, stating no further records existed. Tiwari filed both a first and second appeal with the CIC.

At the hearing in April 2025, the Commission found the responses vague and lacking in detail. The CIC directed the bank to provide revised responses within 30 days.

Image: Background Documents Referenced in CIC Proceedings.

Courtesy: Radha Raman Tiwari

Legal Milestone: Gujarat High Court Judgment

In parallel, Tiwari moved the Gujarat HC, challenging the delay in his promotion. In a detailed judgment delivered in December 2024, the Court found that the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) had already classified his case as “non-vigilance,” undermining the basis for delay.

The Court ruled that the delay lacked justification, and directed the bank to promote Tiwari with retrospective effect from the date his juniors were promoted, along with payment of arrears.

Image: Court documents from Tiwari vs. BoB case
Courtesy: Radha Raman Tiwari

Penalty for RTI Non-Compliance
In a related proceeding, the CIC imposed a penalty of ₹15,000 on the bank’s CPIO for failing to provide complete and truthful information. The order noted that the CPIO had not furnished requested notes and internal records that were central to Tiwari’s queries.


 

Image: Image: CIC imposes penalty upon CPIO, BoB

Courtesy: Radha Raman Tiwari

Broader Reflections on Public Sector Processes
Though specific to one officer, this case reflects broader challenges observed in public sector institutions. Issues such as delayed vigilance clearances, inconsistent communication, and limited access to information through RTI mechanisms continue to affect perceptions of transparency and fairness. Recent reports have documented concerns raised by staff regarding promotion-related matters, while RTI applications reflect ongoing efforts to seek clarity on procedural aspects.

The CIC’s directive for improved disclosure and the High Court’s involvement signal an institutional emphasis on strengthening governance and procedural accountability.

Radha Raman Tiwari stated to Kanal, "One should fight until his last breath." 

The case of Radha Raman Tiwari shows how administrative delays and gaps in information disclosure can lead to formal institutional reviews. The responses by the CIC and the Gujarat HC reflect the functioning of oversight mechanisms in addressing procedural concerns within public sector banks. As similar matters continue to surface, the role of transparency and adherence to established guidelines remains central to ensuring consistency and accountability in administrative decision-making.