Ensure proper implementation of provisions of RTI Act on proactive disclosure of information: SC

The Supreme Court has directed Information Commissions to strictly monitor public authorities’ proactive disclosure of information, emphasizing that accountability is essential for the relationship between duty bearers and right holders. By reinforcing Section 4 of the Right to Information Act, the court ensures that transparency mechanisms are not merely symbolic but actively enforced to uphold democratic governance standards. This ruling highlights the critical link between power and accountability, mandating continuous oversight by regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with disclosure guidelines. The decision addresses historical non-compliance and poor participation in audits, aiming to transform passive legal provisions into effective tools for citizen empowerment and institutional transparency. This development is highly relevant to open data because it legally reinforces the obligation for public bodies to proactively release essential information. It establishes a stronger framework for ensuring that open data initiatives are not optional but mandatory, thereby promoting greater accessibility, trust, and active citizen engagement with public records.

Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com
Published on 2023-08-21