The order was passed in pursuance of an appeal filed by a citizen seeking certain information from HRCP. After examining the matter judiciously, the Commission considered the original information request, HRCP’s response dated 26-11-2025, and its subsequent response dated 21-01-2026 submitted before the Commission. The Commission also carefully reviewed the relevant legal provisions, including Section 2(ix) of the Act.

In its order, the Commission referred specifically to Section 2(ix)(h) of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, which defines a public body to include a non-governmental organization that directly or indirectly receives or has received public funds, subsidies, tax exemptions, land, or any other benefit involving public funds, as well as any non-governmental organization or body registered under any law for the time being in force.

During the proceedings, HRCP acknowledged that it had obtained an exemption under Section 2(36) of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001, commonly referred to as Clause 2(36), which is a statutory requirement for operating as a Not-for-Profit Organization in Pakistan.

The Commission noted that this exemption constitutes a benefit under the law and carries legal implications under the Right of Access to Information framework.

In view of HRCP’s categorical admission and the clear implications of Section 2(ix)(h) of the Act, the Commission concluded that the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan falls within the ambit of a public body as defined under the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017.

Accordingly, the Commission held that HRCP is legally bound to provide the information sought by the applicant, provided that the same is not otherwise exempt under the law.