How to use RTI: tips from an activist

Express News Service; Mon Sep 27 2010; Pune:

The Right to Information Act of 2005 (RTI) was implemented to put a check on corruption and bring more transparency in the functioning of government agencies, said Vivek Velankar, a civic activist and RTI expert, here recently.

He was addressing members of the Rotary Club of Chinchwad during a lecture series organised by the Rotarians.

Velankar referred to the Official Secrets Act of 1923 which was formulated by the British to deprive the Indians of their legitimate right to know about the administrative functioning. “Anna Hazare propagated the Act in Maharashtra in 2005 but it was implemented way before in Tamil Nadu and Goa,” said Velankar.

On the utility of the Act, Velankar said that as a citizen of the country any one can seek information about any government work or scheme. This information needs to be provided to the applicant by the official concerned within 30 days of the application. In case he/she fails to do so, the applicant can approach the higher authorities, said Velankar. Besides, if he still finds the explanation unsatisfactory, the applicant can approach the Chief Information officer of the State or Centre. In case the information officer also fails to furnish required information, or submits false information, the guilty could be fined Rs 250 per day till the correct information is not made available to the applicant, said Velanar. However, he added that this fine cannot exceed Rs 25,000.

The activist also pointed out a limitation in the Act. “Any information that may compromise with India’s soverignity, integrity or national security, or may cause contempt of the court, will be barred from being made public,” said Velankar.

On how to write an RTI application, Velankar said that every government department has an information officer. In case of a state department, the applicant should apply either by post or in person on a Rs 10 stamp paper. If not on a stamp paper, Rs 10 should be personally submitted to the office concerned in lieu of a receipt.

However, in case of an RTI application to a Central government office, Rs 10 has to be submitted in cash, he said.

The introductory speech was made by Dr Rubi Chatwal while Dr Shirish Zope proposed a vote of thanks. Chinchwad Rotary Club president Rajesh Agrawal, secretary Sanjay Khanolkar were also present.