Beyond access to information: How Sri Lanka’s RTI Commission became an access-to-justice forum | Daily FT
This article examines how Sri Lanka’s Right to Information Act functions as a critical access-to-justice mechanism, shifting power from state institutions to individuals. The Right to Information Commission consistently applies principles that prioritize transparency, placing the burden of proof on public authorities to justify refusals and ensuring that requesters need not explain their motives. Recent appellate rulings reinforce that statutory bodies are not immune from scrutiny, establishing that incorporation by Parliament inherently demands accountability and transparency to the public. The implications extend deeply into due process and institutional accountability. Citizens utilize these laws to access information essential for defending themselves in disciplinary inquiries, challenging prosecutorial decisions, and monitoring police conduct. By treating judicial and executive bodies as public authorities subject to disclosure, the framework ensures that citizens can see evidence of how decisions are made before disputes escalate. This early access to information serves as a safeguard against oppression, allowing individuals to hold governors accountable through verified data rather than speculation. This case study is relevant to open data advocates because it demonstrates that legal mandates for transparency are as vital as technical infrastructure for enabling citizen participation. The article highlights that open data is not merely about releasing information but about empowering individuals to use that information in legal and democratic contexts. When public bodies are compelled to disclose records related to their operations and decisions, it creates a culture of openness that strengthens democratic integrity and ensures that justice is not only done but visibly accessible to all.
Source: ft.lkPublished on 2026-10-09