RTI SAVED 60,000 RUPEES !!!

Noorjahan (social activist), was asked to pay Rs.1000 towards contribution of puting drainage pipeline in her area in eastern part of ahmedabad. When she asked why should i pay for it? the local leader (contractor) told that municipal corporation has sanctioned only 6 drainage pipelines where all together 18 are needed. Every houshold need to pay Rs. 1000/-.There are in all 60 households in Noorjahan's locality. So the amount came to 60,000/-. Noorajanhan asked the local leader whether he is going to give her receipt, which he refused. Noorjahaan next day visited the camp and filed an application under RTI to ask what is the sanctioned budget, details fothe work sanctioned work etc. Noorjahan alng wiht 25 other local women wnet ot file an application in District Panchayat Office. PIO, initially refused to take application but then upon presurising, called his superior. The record was shown to all the women. The record showed that all the 18 drainage pipelines were sanctioned also 480 ft construction was also sanctioned and they need not pay single rupee fo that. All the women came home and spread the news to each household not to pay single rupee to contractor. But some had already given 1000 Rs. by then. Tomarow, District Panchayat Officer have called meeting where contractor has ben asked to give reasoins for asking such a money.
One of the women from the locality owking as housemaid, was suppose to borrow money from landlady at interest rate of 10% per month. Another khalifaappa, had planned to mortage her ear rings to get Rs.1000. In the open house session held on 10th of July, residents happily shared that RTI saved that 60,000 Rupees!!!