RTI Act strengthens people’s voice in democracy, says Keralam Information Commissioner

RTI Act strengthens people’s voice in democracy, says Keralam Information Commissioner

The Right to Information Act fundamentally strengthens democracy by transforming information access into a citizen’s right, effectively curbing corruption. This legal framework shifts power from exclusive governmental control to public accountability, allowing ordinary people to question authorities directly. Rooted in grassroots movements, the legislation ensures that transparency is not merely bureaucratic but a civic duty. Officials are urged to expedite information requests rather than treating statutory deadlines as rigid waiting periods, thereby enhancing responsive governance and public trust. For open data, this highlights the critical link between legal mandates and public access. The article underscores that true transparency requires proactive disclosure, reinforcing the idea that open data systems must prioritize speed and accessibility to fulfill democratic ideals and prevent misuse.

Source: thehindu.com
Published on 2026-11-14