Denial of information under RTI Act will invite legal action, says Kerala State Information Commissioner

Kerala’s State Information Commissioner warns that withholding information under the RTI Act invites legal action, emphasizing that applicants are entitled to clear, complete responses rather than perfunctory replies. He stresses that officials must prioritize transparency over procedural delays, rejecting vague dismissals like "not available" as unacceptable and potentially punishable. This stance underscores the critical role of open data in holding public servants accountable and rooting out corruption. By mandating immediate and substantive disclosure of administrative details, the initiative reinforces democratic values and protects the citizen’s fundamental right to know. The article is highly relevant to open data advocates as it highlights the legal mechanisms necessary to enforce transparency. It serves as a reminder that without strict compliance and consequences for evasion, open data frameworks risk becoming ineffective tools for genuine public empowerment and institutional integrity.

Source: thehindu.com
Published on 2023-10-14