What is the role of RTI?

Information is regarded as the oxygen of democracy. It invigorates where it percolates. If people do not know what is happening in their society, if the actions of those who rule them are hidden, then they cannot take a meaningful part in the affairs of the society. Freedom of expression, free dissemination of ideas and access to information are vital to the functioning of a democratic government. Information is crucial for a vibrant democracy and good governance as it reflects and captures Government activities and processes. Access to information not only facilitates active participation of the people in the democratic governance process, but also promotes openness, transparency and accountability in administration. ‘Right to Information’ (RTI), the right of every citizen to access information held by or under the control of public authorities, can thus be an effective tool for ushering in good governance. The Right to Information provides citizens the opportunity of being informed of what the Government does for them, why and how it does it. RTI is the single most significant law which enhances the scope of social audit of public policies and programmes to hold public officials socially accountable. The Act secures for every citizen the enforceable right to know, examine, audit, review and assess Government activities and decisions and also ensure that these are consistent with the principles of public interest, probity and justice. By securing access to relevant information and knowledge, the citizens would be able to assess Government performance and participate in and influence the process of policy formulation and programme implementation, particularly on issues relating to public service delivery. read less

The RTI Act specifies that citizens have a right to: request any information (as defined); take copies of documents; inspect documents, works and records; take certified samples of materials of work; and obtain information in the form of printouts, diskettes, floppies, tapes, video cassettes or in any other electronic mode. read less

1. Develop educational programmes for the public especially disadvantaged communities on RTI. 2. Encourage Public Authorities to participate in the development and organization of such programmes. 3. Promote timely dissemination of accurate information to the public. 4. Train officers and develop training materials. 5. Compile and disseminate a User Guide for the public in the respective official language. 6. Publish names, designation postal addresses and contact details of PIOs and other information such as notices regarding fees to be paid, remedies available in law if request is rejected etc. read less