The Right to Information (RTI) Act, enacted in 2005 in India, is a landmark piece of legislation that grants citizens the right to access information from public authorities. It aims to promote transparency, accountability, and openness in government functioning.
Key aspects of the RTI Act include:
Right to Access Information: Citizens can request information from any public authority, which must respond within a stipulated time frame (usually 30 days).
Public Authorities: It covers all central, state, and local government bodies, including administrative offices, public sector enterprises, and NGOs substantially funded by the government.
Information Disclosure: Public authorities must proactively disclose key information, including budget details, policies, and decisions, without waiting for a request.
Exemptions: Some information, like national security details or personal information that could infringe privacy, is exempt from disclosure.
Penalty Provisions: The Act provides penalties for public officials who refuse to provide information or deliberately delay responses.
Independent Oversight: The Central and State Information Commissions act as independent bodies to hear appeals and complaints related to RTI applications.
The RTI Act empowers citizens to actively engage with governance and hold authorities accountable, fostering a more transparent and democratic society.
Varun Jonwal
Principal