Right to Information for Transparent Governance : by Irfan Ali Banka

The Kashmir Horizon: Srinagar: Thursday, Saturday, 17 June 2023.
Introduction: The Right to Information Act (RTI Act) of 2005 stands as a powerful tool to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment in our democratic society. However, recent experiences reveal a disheartening reality deemed refusals, delayed responses, and evasion tactics when seeking information from Public Information Officers (PIOs) in various Municipal Committees. In this opinion piece, I share my journey, emphasizing the urgent need for PIO accountability and urging citizens to actively exercise their right to information, safeguarding the effectiveness of the RTI Act.
The Deemed Refusal Conundrum and the First Appeal: In 2021, I filed multiple RTI applications with PIOs from different Municipal Committees, seeking vital information. Regrettably, no responses were received, leading to deemed refusals and frustrating delays. This lack of accountability undermines the very essence of the RTI Act and erodes trust in our governance systems. Recognizing the urgency for action, I filed a first appeal under the Central RTI Act 2005. Emphasizing the lack of response from PIOs, I sought the intervention of the First Appellate Authority (FAA). Although initially filed with the Housing & Urban Development Department, I was redirected to the Appropriate Authority, the Director of Urban Local Bodies in Kashmir. With persistence, I modified the appeal to include the recipient’s details and actively demanded strict action against negligent PIOs in Municipal Committees, including MC Magam, MC Kunzer, MC Beerwah, MC Pattan, and MC Chadoora.
Deemed refusals and delayed responses undermine the principles of the act, eroding trust in our governance systems. I urge every PIO to fulfill their obligations promptly, recognizing the significance of transparency and citizen engagement. Simultaneously, I call upon all RTI applicants to responsibly exercise their rights, pursuing necessary appeals when faced with non-compliance. By doing so, we can protect and strengthen the Right to Information Act, ensuring transparent governance and fostering a vibrant democracy where citizens actively participate in shaping their nation’s future.
The Outcome:
A Call for Accountability and Wider Action: As a result of the FAA’s intervention, a hearing has been scheduled for the concerned PIOs in Srinagar on 19/06/2023. Encouragingly, some PIOs have started responding, while others have indirectly sought leniency. However, it is imperative that every PIO recognizes their responsibility and promptly replies to all RTI applications. This accountability is fundamental to maintaining transparency, trust, and efficient governance. Beyond my personal journey, actively following the RTI Act yields a multitude of benefits. By exercising our right to information, we enhance government accountability, strengthen democracy, and combat corruption. Access to information empowers citizens to make informed decisions, participate in the decision-making process, and effectively address grievances. Furthermore, it facilitates evidence-based policy formulation, improves service delivery, and promotes transparency in both the government and corporate sectors. Moreover, the RTI Act encourages whistleblowing and safeguards those who expose wrongdoing. It fuels research and investigative journalism, enabling a comprehensive understanding of critical issues and fostering informed public discourse. Embracing these benefits, citizens play an active role in building a transparent, accountable, and inclusive society.
Conclusion: The challenges faced while seeking information through the RTI Act underscore the urgent need for PIO accountability, transparency, and democratic empowerment. Deemed refusals and delayed responses undermine the principles of the act, eroding trust in our governance systems. I urge every PIO to fulfill their obligations promptly, recognizing the significance of transparency and citizen engagement. Simultaneously, I call upon all RTI applicants to responsibly exercise their rights, pursuing necessary appeals when faced with non-compliance. By doing so, we can protect and strengthen the Right to Information Act, ensuring transparent governance and fostering a vibrant democracy where citizens actively participate in shaping their nation’s future.
(The author is anthropologist and Founder J&K RTI Foundation-K. The views, opinions, facts, assumptions, presumptions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”.)