Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: RTI
Mains level: Excusions to RTI queries and issues
Central Idea
- Activists worry about the diminishing effectiveness Right to Information Act, 2005 in holding officials accountable.
- The Act has exemptions for political parties, the judiciary, and intelligence agencies.
- Recent amendments have sparked concerns, such as personal data protection provisions.
The DPDP Act and RTI
- The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, of 2023 prohibits personal data disclosure, even for social audits, reducing transparency.
- Critics fear this blanket ban may hinder accountability and transparency efforts.
About the Right to Information (RTI)
| Enactment | June 15, 2005 |
| Objective | Promote transparency and accountability |
| Applicability | All public authorities at central, state, local levels |
| Scope | Access to information on matters of public interest, government policies, budgets, etc. |
| RTI Application | Filed in writing with the concerned public authority |
| Response Time | Within 30 days (48 hours for life or liberty issues) |
| Exemptions | Some information exempted to protect national security, privacy, etc.
Judiciary |
| Fees | Nominal fee varies based on state and information requested |
| First Appellate Authority | Filed if dissatisfied with the response |
| Second Appeal | Filed with the relevant Information Commission |
| Whistleblower Protection | Safeguards against victimization for exposing corruption |
| Impact | Promotes transparency, accountability, and good governance |
Challenges in Implementation
- Implementation issues undermine the transparency that the Act aims to achieve.
- The Act’s effectiveness depends on subordinate rules set by the Union and State Governments.
- Slow appointments to information commissions delay appeals and erode trust in the system.
Barriers and Online Solutions
- Payment methods for RTI applications vary among States, causing complications.
- Online RTI portals remove barriers but are not widespread, hindering access.
- The Union Government’s RTI portal has usability issues, impacting data retrieval.
Growing Dissatisfaction
- Rising first appeals indicate growing dissatisfaction with the information provided.
- Structural problems in institutions and websites hinder RTI effectiveness.
- Activists emphasize the importance of addressing broader institutional issues.
Conclusion
- The RTI Act’s efficacy is hampered by implementation challenges, amendments, and online barriers.
- A holistic approach is needed to restore and enhance the Act’s effectiveness.
- Addressing these issues will strengthen transparency, accountability, and citizens’ access to information.
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