Who Was Rakhini Mipi: The RTI Activist Found Dead In Arunachal

Outlook India: National: Saturday, 10^th October 2026.
The Assam Rifles rifleman had challenged alleged irregularities in public projects and raised concerns over environmental violations and electoral rolls.

Rakhini Mipi, an RTI activist and rifleman with the 24th Assam Rifles, was found dead at an Army transit camp in Hunli on October 4. Photo: X

Summary of this article:

• Rakhini Mipi, an RTI activist and rifleman with the 24th Assam Rifles, was found dead at an Army transit camp in Hunli on October 4.
• Mipi had challenged alleged irregularities in public projects and raised environmental concerns over highway construction.
• Police registered a case of unnatural death, while the circumstances surrounding his death remain unresolved.

Rakhini Mipi, a rifleman with the 24th Assam Rifles and a Right to Information (RTI) activist from Arunachal Pradesh, was found dead at an Army transit camp in Hunli, in Lower Dibang Valley district, on October 4. Police registered a case of unnatural death and began investigating the circumstances. They had not ruled out foul play, according to The Arunachal Times.
Mipi used the RTI Act and legal proceedings to question alleged irregularities in government projects and raise concerns about environmental violations during highway construction. He also opposed the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project and questioned electoral-roll entries in Dibang Valley.
His Work As An RTI Activist
Mipi was from Dibang Valley and served in the 24th Assam Rifles while pursuing complaints about public works and environmental protection.
According to The Arunachal Times, Mipi was travelling with his unit to Anini for an Armed Forces warfare exercise. The unit reached Hunli on the evening of October 3. According to Hunli police station officer-in-charge Inspector Mohon Mili, Mipi was found hanging in the bathroom of an Army transit camp near the Circuit House at around 7.10 am the following morning.
Police registered a case of unnatural death, and his body was taken to Roing for a post-mortem examination before being handed over to his family. In its initial report, The Arunachal Times said police had not ruled out foul play and had yet to record statements from family members.
The Projects And Alleged Irregularities He Challenged
Mipi approached the National Green Tribunal (NGT) over alleged environmental violations during the construction of National Highway 313, which connects Roing, Hunli and Anini. The case involved the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and contractors working on the highway.
The NGT's July 20, 2022, judgment in Rakhini Mipi vs State of Arunachal Pradesh records allegations that construction debris was being dumped outside designated sites, including on forest land and into rivers. Inspections by the Arunachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board identified environmental violations, including improper dumping, damage to vegetation and inadequate dust-control measures.
The Arunachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board imposed environmental compensation of Rs 3,28,68,750 on NHIDCL over improper dumping by road construction companies. NHIDCL paid the compensation before the application was disposed of. The tribunal directed the state government and pollution control board to protect forests and rivers from pollution and environmental damage.
The Arunachal Times reported that Mipi had raised allegations of irregularities in Jal Jeevan Mission projects in Dibang Valley, which aim to provide tap-water connections to rural households.
Ukhrul Times reported that Mipi had raised allegations in 2022 about roads built under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. He questioned whether structures listed in project reports had been built, whether road works met prescribed specifications and whether population figures in detailed project reports had been manipulated.
Mipi also opposed the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, questioning attempts to prepare its pre-feasibility report despite opposition from sections of the local population. The proposed dam has prompted concerns about its potential environmental and social consequences.
Mipi had also raised concerns on social media about the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Dibang Valley. He alleged that people who were not members of Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribes (APSTs) had been included in the electoral rolls, raising concerns about electoral representation.
What Is Known About His Death?
The circumstances of Mipi's death remain unresolved. The available reporting does not establish whether another person was involved, and the cause of death should not be treated as settled before the investigative findings are available.
Maktoob Media reported that Ebo Milo, a relative and lawyer, has expressed suspicions of foul play. Milo said Mipi had been in good mental condition and had shown no signs of distress. He also referred to legal proceedings pursued using information Mipi had obtained.

Bombay High Court Quashes Magistrate's Order in RTI Complaint Case for Lack of Sanction Under Section 197 CrPC. Public servant acting in official capacity cannot be prosecuted without prior sanction under Section 197 of Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.

Lawtext: Aurangabad: Saturday, 10^th October 2026.

Case Note & Summary: The petitioner, Sanjay Shivaji Dhapse, claiming to be the Ahmednagar District Head of All India Human Rights and Citizen Option and a Corporator, filed an application under the Right to Information Act, 2005 (RTI Act) on 2.1.2009 with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) seeking information.
HPCL asked him to send a demand draft of Rs.10, which he did on 24.1.2009. However, by communication dated 6.2.2009, the Senior Regional Manager and Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) of HPCL informed him that the information was not available on record and, being of commercial value, could not be provided.
Aggrieved, the petitioner filed a complaint under Section 200 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC) before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Ahmednagar, alleging offences under Sections 418, 420, 426, 468, 471, 120-B of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC) and Section 20 of the RTI Act. The Magistrate, by order dated 4.7.2009, issued process against the Senior Regional Manager and CPIO.
The accused filed a revision before the Additional Sessions Judge, Ahmednagar, who by order dated 16.2.2010 dismissed the revision. The petitioner then filed the present criminal writ petition under Article 227 of the Constitution of India challenging both orders. The High  Court framed the issue of whether prosecution could proceed without sanction under Section 197 CrPC.
The petitioner argued that the RTI Act is a special Act and Section 20 thereof provides for prosecution without sanction. The respondents contended that the accused were public servants acting in official capacity and sanction was mandatory. The  court analyzed Section 197 CrPC and held that the acts complained of were in discharge of official duty, and thus sanction was mandatory.
The court further held that Section 20 of the RTI Act does not override the requirement of sanction under CrPC. Consequently, the court quashed the impugned orders and the complaint, allowing the petition.

Winners of Dr RS Tolia State-Level RTI Debate Competition–2026 awarded

Garhwal Post: Dehradun: Saturday, 10^th October 2026.
Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd) participated as the Chief Guest in a programme organised at Lok Bhavan on Wednesday to mark the 21st anniversary of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. On the occasion, he felicitated the winners of the Dr. R. S. Tolia State-Level Right to Information Act Debate Competition–2026.

Gov attends event marking 21st Anniversary of RTI Act

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the Right to Information is not merely a means of obtaining information from a government office; rather, it empowers citizens to understand governance, ask questions and ensure their participation in the system. He emphasised that the RTI Act is a vital pillar of transparency, accountability and citizen empowerment.
The Governor observed that perceptions of information and governance have undergone a significant transformation over time. Earlier, greater importance was attached to secrecy in government and administration. Today, however, transparency and accountability have become integral to a democratic system. He said that the more transparent and accountable the functioning of the government and administration, the more effective and robust the governance system would be. He added that this was not merely the responsibility of any individual or institution, but a collective responsibility of the entire nation.
The Governor stated that technology has transformed the entire landscape of information in the 21st century. Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, space technology, cyber technology and data analytics have made access to information easier and faster than ever before. He emphasised that the responsible and judicious use of these technologies would be crucial as India progresses towards the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
The Governor urged the State Information Commission to move forward by effectively adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies in response to changing technological developments. He said that technology should be used to make citizens’ access to information simpler, faster and more transparent. The use of AI and digital platforms can help disseminate RTI-related information, guidance and awareness to a much wider audience.
Emphasising the need to raise awareness about the RTI Act in remote and hilly areas, the Governor called for strengthening the participation and representation of citizens from these regions. He said that it must be ensured that people living in the remote areas of Uttarakhand have complete information about the Right to Information and access to the facilities required to exercise this right. He added that technology and public awareness could help extend the reach of the State Information Commission to the farthest corners of the state.
On the occasion, Chief Information Commissioner Radha Raturi briefed the gathering on the functioning and activities of the Commission.
Information Commissioner Dalip Singh Kunwar, former Information Commissioner Yogesh Bhatt, Secretary Rajendra Kumar, Secretary to the State Information Commission Raza Abbas, Additional Secretary Reena Joshi, and students from various schools and colleges were present at the programme.

RTI Act Heartbeat Of Democracy: Governor

Deccan Chronicle: Hyderabad: Saturday, 10^th October 2026.
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Friday described the Right to Information (RTI) Act as the heartbeat of democracy, saying it provided a strong foundation for transparency, accountability and public participation in governance. Addressing the RTI Week celebrations organised by the Telangana Information Commission at Ravindra Bharathi, the Governor said the relationship between the government and citizens could be strengthened only through transparent and accountable governance.
The celebrations mark 21 years since the Right to Information Act, 2005, came into force. The week-long programme, which began on Monday, will conclude on October 12.

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla— DC File

Shukla said information about government schemes, policies, eligibility criteria and application procedures should be made readily accessible to the public. Proactive disclosure of such information would reduce the need for citizens to file RTI applications, he said.
The Governor stressed that information should be made available not only in Telugu but also in other languages understood by the people, particularly in a diverse state like Telangana.
He said it was a collective responsibility to ensure that the benefits of the RTI Act reached rural communities, women, persons with disabilities and marginalised sections without any barriers. He also called for greater use of modern technology to improve access to information.
State chief information commissioner Dr G. Chandrashekhar Reddy said government departments must proactively share information to meet the expectations of the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, which seeks immediate access to information.
Highlighting the commission's performance, he said it had disposed of 21,000 of the 30,000 cases in just 15 months. Pendency across 24 departments had been brought down to near-zero levels, while an audit process pending for eight years had been completed. On the occasion, the Governor released Samachara Darpanam, a newsletter published by the Telangana Information Commission.
Director General of Police C.V. Anand administered the RTI pledge. The Governor also presented awards and felicitated officials and departments for their contributions to the effective implementation of the RTI Act.

Karnataka Information Commission imposes ₹50,000 penalty on five officials for RTI lapses

The Hindu: Karnataka: Saturday, 10^th October 2026.
The Kalaburagi Bench of the Karnataka Information Commission has imposed a fine of ₹10,000 each on five Public Information Officers (PIOs) for failing to provide information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, and for not complying with the Commission’s directions.

Karnataka State Information Commissioner (Kalaburagi Bench) B. Venkata Singh | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

State Information Commissioner B. Venkata Singh passed the orders while hearing second appeals filed by applicants who had not received the information they had sought within the stipulated period. The total penalty imposed on the five officials amounts to ₹50,000.
The officials fined are Suryakanth, former First Division Assistant at the Basavakalyan City Municipal Council; Mallikarjun, Secretary of Bolamanadoddi Gram Panchayat in Raichur district; Abhay Kumar, Environmental Engineer at the Kalaburagi City Corporation; Gurappa Nayak, Secretary of Jumlapur Gram Panchayat in Kushtagi taluk; and Ravikumar, Secretary of Nagalapur Gram Panchayat in Hospet taluk.
According to the Commission’s order, the officials failed to comply with directions to furnish information to the appellants and submit copies of the information provided, along with acknowledgements of receipt, to the Commission.
The Commission has directed the respective superior officers to deduct the penalty amounts from the officials’ salaries for the coming month, deposit it under the account head specified by the Commission and submit the receipts as proof of payment.
The officials have also been directed to provide the pending information to the appellants immediately on receipt of the order and submit copies of the information and acknowledgements to the Commission. They have been asked to appear before the Commission at the next hearing.
The directions were issued under Section 18(3) of the RTI Act, 2005. The Commission warned that failure to comply could invite action under Section 20(2) of the Act. It also directed the first appellate authorities concerned to take appropriate action, warning that failure to do so could lead to recommendations for disciplinary action.

Suryapet named Telangana’s best-performing district in RTI Act implementation

Telangana Today: Nalgonda: Saturday, 10^th October 2026.

Suryapet district has been recognised by the Telangana State Information Commission as the best-performing district in the state for implementing the Right to Information Act, 2005. District Collector Tejas Nand Lal Pawar received the award from Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla in Hyderabad.
Suryapet district has earned State-level recognition for its performance in implementing the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. The Telangana State Information Commission selected the district as the “Best Performing District” for its implementation of the Act.
District Collector Tejas Nand Lal Pawar received the award from Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla during the Right to Information Week Celebrations 2026 held at Ravindra Bharati in Hyderabad on Friday.
The Suryapet district administration undertook special initiatives to uphold citizens’ right to information and promote transparency and accountability in government administration.
The initiatives focused on providing information in response to RTI applications within the stipulated time frames, regularly monitoring their disposal and improving coordination among various departments.

Only 18% of Rs 136cr MPLADS funds utilised in U’khand till June

Times of India: Dehradun: Friday, 9^th October 2026.

Rudrapur: Only Rs 24.1 crore, or about 18%, of Rs 136 crore allocated under Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) to Uttarakhand’s five Lok Sabha and three Rajya Sabha MPs during their current terms had been utilised on completed and ongoing works till June 2026, while 215 proposed projects were awaiting administrative approval and 154 sanctioned works had not started, information obtained under Right to Information (RTI) Act showed.
Kashipur-based RTI activist and advocate Nadeem Uddin sought the expenditure and project-status details from office of commissioner, rural development, Uttarakhand. Public information officer and deputy commissioner (administration) Hemanti Gujiyal provided the information through letter No. 319762. Of the total allocation, Rs 73.5 crore was for five Lok Sabha MPs and Rs 62.5 crore for three Rajya Sabha MPs. The data showed Rs 12.8 crore had been spent on completed works and Rs 11.3 crore on projects under execution.
Among Lok Sabha MPs, Tehri Garhwal MP Mala Rajya Laxmi Shah recorded the highest utilisation at Rs 4 crore, or 28% of her allocation, followed by Nainital-Udham Singh Nagar MP Ajay Bhatt at Rs 1.8 crore, or 12%, and Haridwar MP Trivendra Singh Rawat at Rs 1.5 crore, or 10%. Almora MP Ajay Tamta recorded expenditure of Rs 17 lakh, around 1%.
The five Lok Sabha MPs together proposed 716 works. Bhatt proposed 327, of which 260 were sanctioned, with 56 completed, 183 in progress and 21 yet to start. Shah proposed 184 works and secured sanction for 167, of which 80 were completed, 74 were ongoing and 13 had not begun. Rawat proposed 137 works, of which 31 were sanctioned, with 20 completed and 11 ongoing, while Tamta proposed 59 and secured sanction for 35, with 29 in progress and three yet to commence.
The RTI response, however, also lists three works as completed, three as ongoing and one as not started. These figures do not reconcile with the stated number of sanctioned works and require clarification from the department.
Among Rajya Sabha MPs, Naresh Bansal recorded expenditure of Rs 10.96 crore, or 40% of his allocation, followed by Kalpana Saini at Rs 4.356 crore, or 22%, and Mahendra Bhatt at Rs 1.139 crore, or 8%. Bansal proposed 280 works, of which 231 were sanctioned, with 39 completed, 118 ongoing and 74 yet to start. Saini proposed 140 works and secured sanction for 106, including 48 completed, 54 ongoing and four yet to begin, while Bhatt proposed 87 works, of which 71 were sanctioned, with 10 completed, 23 ongoing and 38 yet to start.
Under MPLADS, MPs recommend development works based on local needs, while district authorities are responsible for sanctioning eligible works and their implementation. Funds under the scheme are non-lapsable and unspent balances can be utilised in subsequent years.

High Court of Bombay at Goa Quashes Order of State Chief Information Commissioner in RTI Case — Personal Information of Public Servant Exempt from Disclosure Under Section 8(1)(j) of Right to Information Act, 2005 unless Larger Public Interest Demonstrated. Information Regarding Date of Appointment, Educational Qualifications, Working Hours Relates to Personal Sphere and Disclosure Would Cause Unwarranted Invasion of Privacy.

Lawtext: Goa: Friday, 9^th October 2026.

Case Note & Summary: The matter arose from a writ petition under Article 227 of the Constitution of India filed by Deepak Pandharinath Vaingankar, a public servant, challenging an order dated 5 July 2018 passed by the State Chief Information Commissioner under the Right to Information Act, 2005. The dispute centered on whether personal information of the petitioner, including his date of appointment, working hours, educational qualifications, and other details, could be disclosed to the respondent No.1, Suryakant Babu Naik, under the RTI Act.
The respondent No.1 had filed an application under Section 6(1) of the Act seeking the petitioner's personal particulars. The Public Information Officer initially declined the information on 11 October 2017, finding that the application was motivated by personal harassment and lacked public interest. The First Appellate Authority dismissed the respondent No.1's first appeal on 4 January 2018. However, on a second appeal, the State Chief Information Commissioner allowed the disclosure on 5 July 2018, directing the Public Information Officer to furnish the information. Aggrieved, the petitioner approached the High Court.
The petitioner contended that the information sought was personal in nature, had no relationship to any public activity or interest, and would cause unwarranted invasion of privacy, thus being exempt under Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act. He relied on Supreme Court decisions in Girish Ramchandra Deshpande v. Central Information Commissioner and Canara Bank v. C.S. Shyam. The respondent No.1 argued that no reason was required to be given for seeking information under Section 6(2), and that under the proviso to Section 8(1)(j), information that could be disclosed to Parliament or State Legislature could also be disclosed to a citizen.
He also raised a procedural point regarding notice under Section 11. The High Court examined the relevant provisions of the RTI Act, including Sections 2(f), 2(h), 2(j), 6, 8(1)(j), and 11. It held that personal information of an employee, such as appointment date, educational qualifications, and working hours, falls within the expression 'personal information' in Section 8(1)(j) and is exempt from disclosure unless the authority is satisfied that larger public interest justifies it.
The  court found no such larger public interest was demonstrated. It further held that the mere fact that information could be disclosed to Parliament or State Legislature did not entitle a citizen to access it. The court quashed the order of the State Chief Information Commissioner, allowing the writ petition and upholding the exemption. The decision affirmed the principle that personal details of a public servant, unrelated to public activity, are protected from disclosure under the RTI Act to prevent unwarranted invasion of privacy.

Arunachal Pradesh-based RTI activist found dead at Army transit camp; family alleges foul play

Maktoob: Arunachal: Friday, 9^th October 2026.
Renowned RTI activist and Assam Rifles rifleman Rakhini Mipi was found dead at an Army transit camp in Arunachal Pradesh, with his family alleging foul play and citing legal petitions based on his RTI findings.

Rakhini Mipi, an RTI activist and rifleman with the 24th Assam Rifles, was found dead at Hunli in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Dibang Valley district on Sunday morning.
Hunli police station officer-in-charge Inspector Mohon Mili told The Arunachal Times that Mipi’s body was found hanging in the bathroom of an Army transit camp near the Circuit House at around 7:10 am.
According to the report, Mipi was travelling to Anini with his unit for an armed forces warfare exercise. The 24th Assam Rifles had reached Hunli on the evening of October 3 and was scheduled to leave for Anini the following morning.
Police have registered a case of unnatural death and said an investigation is underway. Lower Dibang Valley police said the body was taken to Roing for a post-mortem examination and was later handed over to Mipi’s family.
The police have not ruled out the possibility of foul play, the report said. However, they said they would examine this angle after recording statements from Mipi’s family members.
Mipi had been active in using the Right to Information Act to raise questions about government projects. He had highlighted alleged corruption in several projects, including those under the Jal Jeevan Mission in the two Dibang Valley districts.
The activist’s family has alleged foul play. Speaking to Maktoob, Mipi’s relative Ebo Milo, who is also a prominent lawyer in the region, said Mipi had been in good mental condition and had never shown any signs of distress.
“His body was found in the Army Transit bathroom. But we suspect foul play because on the basis of Mipi’s RTI information different petitions were filed. One of the cases is going on in National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the other petition is pending in the high court,” Mili added.
On August 10, Mipi had raised concerns on social media about the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Dibang Valley. He alleged that a considerable number of people who were not Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribes (APSTs) had been enrolled and said this could raise concerns about gerrymandering in the future.
He had also opposed the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, questioning the authorities’ attempts to prepare a pre-feasibility report despite local residents’ opposition to the dam, according to reports.
The NGT case was based on a petition filed by Mipi in Kolkata against the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and the EPC contractors involved in NH-313, alleging environmental violations.

RTI cornerstone of governance, not instrument of confrontation: Mizoram Governor

The Times of India: Aizawl: Friday, 9^th October 2026.
Mizoram governor Gen. Vijay Kumar Singh on Thursday described the Right to Information (RTI) as a cornerstone of transparent, accountable and participatory governance and not an instrument of confrontation.

Addressing the RTI week celebration, organised by the Mizoram Information Commission (MIC), Singh said, “RTI should not be viewed as an instrument of confrontation. It should serve as a bridge between the administration and the people, helping to strengthen trust, improve public services and promote accountability.”
The governor added that the RTI Act, 2005, had empowered citizens to seek information, understand govt processes and hold public authorities accountable while welcoming the inclusion of village councils and local councils within the RTI framework.
The governor commended the MIC, established on June 29, 2006, for its efforts to implement the RTI Act.
Singh also welcomed the commission’s initiatives to expand digital access and expressed hope that the RTI online version 2.0, will be used effectively.
He urged stakeholders to work towards a governance system in which transparency is the norm, accountability is a responsibility and citizens are active and informed participants in democracy.

Mizoram Governor Leads Celebration of RTI Week 2026

Lok Bhavan Mizoram: Aizawl: Friday, 9^th October 2026.
Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), today graced the celebration of Right to Information (RTI) Week 2026 organised by the Mizoram Information Commission (MIC) at the Assembly Annexe Conference Hall in Aizawl as the Chief Guest.

In his address, the Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh described the Right to Information as a cornerstone for establishing transparent, accountable and participatory governance. He noted that the RTI Act, 2005 has empowered citizens to seek information, understand government processes and hold public authorities accountable, thereby strengthening the relationship between citizens and the government. Welcoming the inclusion of Village Councils and Local Councils within the RTI framework, he said this was an important step towards building accountability closer to the people, adding that transparency must not remain confined to government offices.
The Governor appreciated the Mizoram Information Commission, established on 29 June 2006, for its dedicated efforts in implementing the RTI Act, 2005. He observed that the substantial number of RTI applications, appeals and complaints received over the years reflected the people’s growing awareness of their democratic rights. He also welcomed the Commission’s initiatives to expand digital access to RTI and expressed hope that the RTI Online Version 2.0, launched on 5 October 2026, would be utilised effectively.
Emphasising the importance of proactive disclosure under Section 4 of the RTI Act, the Governor stated, “The spirit of the law is not merely to answer questions after an RTI application is filed. Public authorities should, as far as possible, place relevant information in the public domain. Transparency should become a normal feature of administration, rather than an exception.”
He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of RTI activists in ensuring the successful implementation of the Act, “RTI should not be viewed as an instrument of confrontation. It should serve as a bridge between the administration and the people, helping to strengthen trust, improve public services and promote accountability,” he said. Highlighting the need for awareness, accessibility and proactive transparency during RTI Week, the Governor urged everyone to work together to build a governance system in which transparency is the norm, accountability is a responsibility and citizens are active and informed participants in democracy.
Dr. Lalzirmawia Chhangte, State Information Commissioner, delivered the keynote address and welcomed the gathering. Two RTI practitioners, Mr. K. Lalngaizuala of East Lungdar and Mr. Adam Saprinsanga Halliday of Chaltlang, shared their experiences and suggestions for improvement in the implementation of RTI. Mrs. Lily, Secretary of the MIC, proposed the vote of thanks and concluded the programme.
During the event, prizes were awarded to the winners of the RTI slogan-writing competition for college students:
1st Place: Zonunfela, Department of Education (5th Semester), Government Hrangbana College (Rs 5,000 + Certificate)
Slogan: “In secret, democracy dies. In transparency, democracy thrives. Seek the truth, expose corruption and demand justice through ‘Right to Information’.”
2nd Place: F. Lalthanzuala, Department of Public Administration (1st Semester), Pachhunga University College (Rs 4,000 + Certificate)
Slogan: “Right to Information brings transparency to light, to end corruptions of our nation, we must know our right.”
3rd Place: Lalrinnunga, B.Com (5th Semester), Government Aizawl College (Rs 3,000 + Certificate)
Slogan: “Piallei khat theuha piang hringmi tan hriat thiang leh thiang lo a awm bik dawn em ni? RTI dan hmanga hriatna hi mitin dikna a ni.”

30 posts in Haryana State Information Commission vacant, over 9.5K cases pending: RTI

The Tribune: Rohtak: Thursday, 8^th October 2026.
With 30 posts lying vacant in the Haryana State Information Commission, a large number of appeals and complaints filed under the Right to Information Act are awaiting hearing, and 9,544 cases were pending till July 2026, according to information obtained by Subhash, state convener of the Haryana Suchna Adhikar Manch.

He maintained that the vacancies are spread across different categories and include key posts such as the secretary to the Chief Information Commissioner and under secretary. Four posts of private secretary, seven of personal assistant, five posts each of stenotypist and assistant, one post each of clerk, research officer-cum-consultant, two posts of junior scale steno and three posts of driver were vacant.
Subhash said the staff shortage was affecting the functioning of the commission and could be one of the factors contributing to the rising pendency of appeals and complaints.
“The number of cases awaiting hearing has increased substantially in recent years. Against 4,004 pending cases in 2022, the figure rose to 4,865 in 2023. It stood at 4,130 in 2024 before rising sharply to 6,883 in 2025. By July 2026, the pendency had reached 9,544,” said Subhash.
The activist has also obtained information regarding expenditure on fuel for vehicles used by information commissioners. “The commission spent Rs 20.42 lakh on fuel in 2022, Rs 17.39 lakh in 2023, Rs 17.20 lakh in 2024 and Rs 10.99 lakh in 2025. In the first five months of 2026, the expenditure had already touched Rs 7.77 lakh,” he said.
Subhash said he had also sought information on leave availed by the Chief Information Commissioner and other information commissioners between January 2025 and May 16, 2026. However, he was denied the information, on the grounds that it fell under the category of personal information. Questioning the denial, Subhash said the commission needed to ensure greater transparency in its functioning while taking steps to fill the vacant posts and expedite the disposal of pending RTI appeals and complaints.

RTI blocked, crores hidden: Bar accuses Meghalaya govt of shielding AG Amit Kumar’s bills

Hub News: Shillong: Thursday, 8^th October 2026.
The lawyers’ stir against Advocate General Amit Kumar has now turned into a fight over transparency, with the High Court Bar Association alleging the state government is deliberately suppressing details of public money spent on the AG’s office.

Meghalaya Advocate General Amit Kumar

Secretary General Kishore Gautam said an RTI application seeking expenditure details was rejected on the 30th day citing Section 8.
“We had filed an RTI to know how much public funds are being spent for the office of the Advocate General and the outstation lawyers. On the 30th day, they replied saying they cannot give the information under Section 8, which is absolutely not legally tenable,” Gautam said.
“We have filed an appeal. It is clear the government is trying to shield information. It does not want the amount spent on the AG and his office to come out in public, because then people will understand why we are agitating,” he said.
Gautam said the figure runs into crores, far higher than under previous AGs.
“A lot of money, crores and crores, is being spent for running the office of an Advocate General who comes from Delhi. Compare it with earlier Advocate Generals and you will see a very big difference,” he said.
“For a small state like ours, we need not spend so much for the AG and outstation lawyers who come from outside and stay in five-star hotels,” Gautam added.
He said the Bar will not stop at the first appeal.
“That information has been denied to us. We have filed an appeal which I think will also be denied, but we will keep pursuing. They cannot invoke Section 8 when public funds are involved,” he said.
On Kumar’s designation as senior advocate, Gautam said, “He was not a designated senior when he came here. He was designated from here. We had called a general body meeting then and wanted to challenge his designation, but could not do so.”
“Now one person is holding everything at ransom. We are forced to boycott courts because of one person. The public is suffering, the legal fraternity is suffering and the government is silent. This shows the state of affairs,” he said.

IIT Kanpur scholar suicide: CIC directs institute to check probe status, act on father’s RTI plea

The Print: New Delhi: Thursday, 8^th October 2026.
The Central Information Commission (CIC) has asked IIT Kanpur to check whether a probe into a PhD scholar’s suicide has reached a stage where his father can be given the institute’s internal inquiry report that it had earlier withheld citing the ongoing investigation.

The 24-year-old PhD scholar, Ankit Yadav, died by suicide on February 10, 2025, while pursuing a PhD in Chemistry at IIT Kanpur.
A purported suicide note was found in the room in which Yadav stated that he took the extreme step of his own will and blamed nobody for it.
His father, Ram Surat Yadav, had sought under the RTI Act the inquiry report prepared by the institute, along with his own recorded statement and those of nine students who had left the research laboratory of an assistant professor.
The Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) of IIT Kanpur had denied the information under Section 8(1)(h) of the RTI Act, which exempts information whose disclosure would impede investigation or apprehension or prosecution of offenders.
The CPIO told the Commission that a criminal case had been registered in connection with the death and that the investigation was underway.
The institute had constituted an inquiry committee on February 16, 2025, which recorded statements of the appellant and nine students who had left the research lab.
The committee prepared its fact-finding report on March 18, 2025. The institute’s security officer subsequently furnished the report to the police on July 16, 2025, following a written request from the investigating officer.
The report formed part of the material collected and relied upon in the ongoing criminal investigation, the CPIO told the CIC.
The police had registered an FIR under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, relating to abetment of suicide, according to the order.
The CPIO also told the Commission that he would liaise with the officer concerned to ascertain the stage of investigation and inform the appellant about the permissible information.
The CIC, in its order dated September 22, 2026, said the earlier CPIO reply “appears to be well within the ambit of the RTI Act, 2005”.
However, it directed the CPIO to “liaison the status of investigation in the matter with the concerned officer under Section 5(4) of the RTI Act” and provide the requested information “strictly as per the provisions of the RTI Act, free of cost”.
The CIC also took note of IIT Kanpur’s measures for mental health support, including trained psychologists and psychiatrists, nine dedicated professional student counsellors, a 24×7 crisis helpline and anonymous online support.
The institute said around 2,530 counselling sessions were held between January and June 2025 and 3,332 between July 2025 and January 2026.
It also has access to Hello Dost and Tele-MANAS services and has been conducting a Gatekeeper Training Programme for suicide prevention since 2021.
The Commission said it expected IIT Kanpur to ensure that such instances are not repeated in future.
(This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.)

Gujarat Information Commission marks Right to Information Week

The News Mill: Gandhinagar: Thursday, 8^th October 2026.
The Government of India observes Right to Information Week annually from October 5 to 12. As part of this, the Gujarat Information Commission in Gandhinagar organised a series of events from October 5 to 7 to promote the implementation of the Right to Information Act, 2005, enhance administrative transparency, and increase public awareness.

The proceedings began with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp by Chief Information Commissioner Subramaniam R Iyer, along with State Information Commissioners Manoj Patel, Nikhil Bhatt, Vipul Raval, and Bharat Ganatra.
Discussions were held with the Nodal Officers of Secretariat administrative departments concerning the uploading of data about public authorities for the year 2025-26 onto the Gujarat State RTI Annual Return System. The Chief Information Commissioner emphasised that completing the Annual Return Form should prioritise both accuracy and quality, not only target completion.
Guidance was provided on the timely and accurate mapping of Public Information Officers and First Appellate Authorities within the RTI Module of the E-Sarkar Portal to facilitate systematic management of RTI applications and appeals.
An awareness programme for Public Information Officers and Assistant Public Information Officers of the Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation (GMRC) took place at the Commission’s Conference Hall, with participants from Surat joining via videoconference. The Commission’s Secretary addressed the attendees, and the Additional Collector of GMRC welcomed the Chief Information Commissioner and State Information Commissioners before explaining the programme’s objectives.
Chief Information Commissioner Iyer highlighted the importance of the RTI Act in promoting transparency and good governance and stressed providing accurate information alongside a constructive attitude. The Commission’s Law Officer delivered a presentation addressing queries and practical challenges faced by officers in their duties.
A separate programme was conducted for students from various colleges in Gandhinagar. Secretary Paresh Dave provided background information on the origin and development of the Right to Information Act, 2005. The students viewed a video podcast produced by the Commission, presented by Law Officer Jagrutiben Patel.
Information about significant judgments from the Supreme Court, High Court, and the Gujarat Information Commission available on the Commission’s website was shared, followed by an interactive question-and-answer session.
The Gujarat Information Commission expressed gratitude for the active cooperation and participation of the Nodal Officers from the Secretariat, officers of the Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation, and law college students during the three-day programme.

Info commission slaps notice on Punjab education official

Hindustan Times: Chandigarh: Thursday, 8^th October 2026.
Issuing the notice under Section 20 (1) of the RTI Act to Gurmeet Kaur, PIO-cum-deputy secretary (Certificate Branch), DGSE, Punjab, the commission has sought an explanation as to why penalty should not be imposed for the alleged wilful denial of information

Pulling her up for withholding information under the Right to Information Act, the Punjab State Information Commission has issued a show-cause notice to the public information officer of the Director General School Education (DGSE) office.
Issuing the notice under Section 20 (1) of the RTI Act to Gurmeet Kaur, PIO-cum-deputy secretary (Certificate Branch), DGSE, Punjab, the commission has sought an explanation as to why penalty should not be imposed for the alleged wilful denial of information.
The commission took particular note of the contradiction in the department’s handling of the RTI application, questioning its decision to classify the sought information as “third-party” material despite the person concerned having consented to its disclosure.
While the First Appellate Authority (FAA) had already recorded that the requisite information could be obtained through the Single Window Branch of the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB), the PIO allegedly failed to provide the information and did not appear before the commission.
The matter pertains to an RTI application filed by Amit Thakur on April 6, 2026. After his first appeal before the FAA on June 22, the applicant approached the commission under Section 19 of the RTI Act. He subsequently filed a second appeal on August 14, following which notices were issued to the authorities concerned.
During the hearing on September 15, the respondents maintained that the information sought related to a third party and, therefore, could not be disclosed. The commission, however, rejected the contention as an adequate ground for withholding the information, particularly when the person to whom the information related had consented to its disclosure.
The commission also considered FAA’s June 22 order, which recorded that the PSEB had prescribed the requisite fee and documents for providing the Gazette page to the third party and that the process was being handled through its Single Window Branch.
Despite this, the PIO neither appeared before the commission nor ensured that the information was furnished to the applicant in accordance with the RTI Act.
The commission has also sought an explanation on why compensation should not be awarded to the appellant. The officials concerned have been directed to appear personally, submit sworn affidavits and explain the basis for treating the information as third-party information despite the consent of the person concerned.
It observed that the RTI Act was intended to promote transparency and accountability in the functioning of public authorities, and indicated that the conduct of officials responsible for processing the application warranted scrutiny.
The respondents have now been directed to appear before the commission at 11 am on October 23 along with the requisite information. The commission has made it clear that no further adjournment will be granted.

Activists question eligibility criteria for 4 Maha information commissioner posts: Nisha Nambiar

Times of India: Pune: Wednesday, 7^Th October 2026.
RTI activists questioned the eligibility criteria to fill up the four vacant state information commissioners’ posts and expressed doubt if these were broad enough to ensure a genuinely wider pool of candidates.

State govt on Tuesday invited applications from non-bureaucratic professionals for the positions. The activists questioned the requirement of 15 years’ experience, the Rs1,000 application fee and the preference for candidates with senior-level experience in govt, semi-govt and autonomous institutions, public sectors, reputable private organisations and social or charitable institutions.
RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar said the Right to Information Act, 2005, does not prescribe 15 years’ experience for appointment as a state information commissioner. “Are these criteria genuinely intended to select the best candidates for the posts or will they once again give preference to senior officials from the bureaucracy?” Kumbhar asked.
He said the Information Commission should have independent voices, including RTI practitioners, journalists, social activists and legal experts. “It is not a rehabilitation centre for bureaucrats after retirement. It is an independent institution meant to protect citizens’ right to information,” Kumbhar said.
General administration department issued the recruitment notice on Tuesday for the four vacancies. Maharashtra State Information Commission has eight commissioners’ posts, but vacancies have resulted in the existing commissioners handling additional divisions. Currently, a commissioner is handling both Konkan and Nashik divisions, while another is handling Pune and Aurangabad divisions.
The recruitment notice invites applications from people with expertise in law, science and technology, social service, management, journalism, mass media, administration and governance. Candidates must be graduates, aged between 45 and 63 years, and have at least 15 years’ experience in one or more of the specified fields. Applications have to be submitted by Nov 5 with the Rs1,000 fee.
The issue of widening the pool of candidates for the information commissioners’ posts was raised earlier too. Former central information commissioner and RTI activist Shailesh Gandhi had said commissioners should understand the RTI Act and the posts should not become “retirement postings”.
“Transparency must be the cornerstone of any appointment to the information commissions. While opening up these posts to non-bureaucrats is an important and welcome step, it does not, by itself, ensure a transparent selection process. There should be a pre-selection committee that scrutinises and interviews the candidates, and the entire process should be conducted in the public eye,” he said.
“The candidates should be asked about their understanding of the RTI Act, their commitment to transparency and, importantly, how they propose to address the mounting pendency of appeals and complaints. Making candidates spell out their approach to clearing the backlog will bring greater accountability to the appointment process and ensure that the commissions function more effectively,” Gandhi said.

Rewa Fake Lawyer Arrested Over Alleged RTI Fraud

Dainik Jagran: Rewa: Wednesday, 7^Th October 2026.
Rewa City Kotwali police arrested Shyam Mishra over allegations of using others’ IDs for RTI applications. He has been taken on police remand.

Rewa City Kotwali police have arrested a man identified as Shyam Mishra, who is alleged to have been posing as a lawyer and using other people’s identities to obtain information through RTI applications. The police are now questioning him on remand.
Rewa police arrest man identified as Shyam Mishra; Rewa City Kotwali police have arrested a man identified as Shyam Mishra in connection with allegations of using other people’s identities for filing RTI applications. According to the information provided by the police, Mishra was arrested after a search that had continued following a complaint registered at City Kotwali police station in 2025.
Complaint was registered in 2025; Police said a complaint against Mishra was registered at City Kotwali in 2025. Since then, the police team had been looking for him. Investigators are now examining the circumstances surrounding the complaint and the activities allegedly linked to the accused.
Alleged use of fake IDs for RTI applications; According to the allegations, Mishra had been using IDs belonging to other people to seek information under the Right to Information Act. Police are investigating how many applications were filed using such identities and what information was sought through them.
The Rewa district administration maintains an official RTI section covering various government departments and offices, reflecting the formal process through which information requests are handled.
Court grants police remand for questioning; After his arrest, Mishra was produced before a court. Police obtained his remand and are questioning him to establish the alleged method used for filing RTI applications and identify the people whose identities may have been used.
Investigators are also examining whether similar complaints or other incidents may be connected to the case.
Police investigating the full extent of the case; City Kotwali police are now working to establish the complete sequence of events and determine how many people may have been affected. The investigation will also focus on the alleged use of identities, RTI applications and the purpose for which the information was obtained.
The allegations against Mishra remain subject to investigation and legal proceedings. His guilt has not been established by a court.

CIC Asks National Rifle Association Of India To Disclose Age-Verification Affidavit Rules

ETV Bharat: New Delhi: Wednesday, 7^Th October 2026.
National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) said the measure was part of steps adopted to prevent and verify age fraud in the shooting sport

The Central Information Commission (CIC) has directed the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) to disclose the rules, policy or other records under which it requires shooters to furnish an affidavit on a non-judicial stamp paper for verification of their date of birth.
The direction was issued by Information Commissioner P R Ramesh while hearing an RTI appeal seeking details of the basis for the affidavit requirement, including the rule or notification under which it was introduced.
The applicant had also sought to know whether the affidavit could be submitted online and within how many days the NRAI approved or rejected a shooter's identification documents.
In its reply, the NRAI said the requirement was based on the decision of the Prevention of Age Fraud Committee and that a hard copy of the affidavit was mandatory. It also said applications were processed within 15 working days.
During the hearing, the NRAI submitted that the Age Fraud Committee had framed rules and policy regarding the affidavit requirement, which was approved by its Governing Body. It said the measure was part of steps adopted to prevent and verify age fraud in shooting sport and to ensure proper verification of age particulars furnished by athletes and safeguard the integrity and fairness of competitions.
The commission, however, observed that the specific rule, policy, order, resolution, minutes or other record evidencing the decision under which the affidavit requirement was prescribed had not been furnished to the applicant.
"Merely informing him that the requirement is 'as per the decision' of the Committee does not completely address the query," the CIC said.
It directed the CPIO to furnish the relevant existing records, including the decision, minutes or resolution of the Prevention of Age Fraud Committee and/or Governing Body, along with any applicable rule, policy, circular, order or notification, within two weeks.
If no separate rule, order or notification exists, the applicant should be clearly informed of this and provided the relevant existing record on the basis of which the requirement was introduced, subject to the RTI Act, the commission said.