Congress Demands Urgent RTI Act Reforms Amid Attacks on Activists
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, a lifeline for marginalised citizens ensuring transparency and accountability, faces challenges. The Congress demands urgent reforms, while activists decry attacks and lack of protection. The Central Information Commission struggles with vacancies and a backlog of appeals.
The RTI Act, passed in 2005, has been eroded since 2014. In 2019, the central government took control of Information Commissioners' tenure and service conditions. The 2023 Digital Personal Data Protection Act further weakened the RTI Act by broadening the scope of 'personal information', making it exempt from disclosure.
The Congress calls for restoring the independence of Information Commissions. They demand the amendment of provisions in the DPDP Act, filling vacancies in the Central Information Commission, regular performance reporting, and protection for RTI users and whistleblowers. They also advocate for the inclusion of journalists, activists, and women in the Commissions.
The Commission currently has only two members, against a sanctioned strength of 11, with over 4.05 lakh appeals and complaints pending nationwide. RTI activists have faced attacks, including the killings of Shehla Masood and Satish Shetty, and the Whistle Blowers Protection Act remains unimplemented.
The RTI Act's independence and effectiveness are at risk. The Congress's demands, if addressed, could strengthen the Act and safeguard those who use it. Swift action is needed to restore transparency and protect users.
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