Court Deems Previous Affidavit Inadequate and Directs Submission of Specific Details on Website Material Authentication
In a significant development, the Gujarat High Court has directed the Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) to submit a detailed affidavit addressing critical queries regarding the authentication of material downloaded from its website. The order comes in response to an affidavit filed by the GPSC Secretary, which the court deemed inadequate and merely an eyewash.
The case, titled "Arati Damjibhai Rangpariya v. State Of Gujarat," was presided over by Justice Nirzar S. Desai. The petitioner, Arati Damjibhai Rangpariya, challenged the authenticity of materials published by GPSC, raising concerns about the policy governing the validation of downloadable content. The court found the affidavit dated 18th March 2026 lacking clarity on whether a PDF version could be considered an authenticated document and if any formal policy existed for such authentication.
Justice Desai emphasized the necessity for the GPSC Secretary to file a detailed and specific affidavit that thoroughly addresses the queries posed by the court in its earlier order dated 16th March 2026. The court's directive mandates that the affidavit avoid vague or general submissions and strictly rely on existing material or policy of GPSC. The Secretary is instructed to clarify whether there is any policy for authenticating materials downloaded from the website, and if absent, provide a clear explanation on the basis of treating such content as authenticated.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on 2nd April 2026, where the court expects GPSC to furnish a comprehensive affidavit that addresses the court's concerns. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how government bodies manage and authenticate digital content, ensuring transparency and reliability for users accessing official materials online.
Bottom Line:
Affidavit by GPSC secretary must address queries on authentication policy for material downloaded from the website and avoid vague or general submissions.
Statutory provision(s): The judgment does not specify particular statutory provisions but involves principles of Administrative Law concerning the affidavit requirements and authentication policies.
Arati Damjibhai Rangpariya v. State Of Gujarat, (Gujarat) : Law Finder Doc id # 2870125
