The pending appeals before the Information Commission should be disposed of expeditiously
Thawar Chand Gehlot, Governor of Karnataka
Bengaluru
Governor of Karnataka Thawar Chand Gehlot emphasised that increasing the use of Information Technology (IT) at all levels of governance will automatically lead to transparency.
Addressing the gathering at the Right to Information Act 20 Years Celebration Programme on Tuesday, the Governor said that the need of the hour is to completely digitize and simplify the Right to Information (RTI) process, enhance the independence and efficiency of Information Commissions, and most importantly, nurture transparency as a moral value in governance.
Highlighting the challenges being faced in the implementation of the RTI Act, the Governor said, the misuse of the Act, the increasing burden on public offices, and the lack of public awareness are major issues. It is essential to understand the true power of the RTI Act, prevent its misuse, and ensure that every citizen can effectively exercise this right. The greater use of information technology in administration will enhance both transparency and public awareness, empowering every citizen to recognize the ‘Right to Information’ as their own right.
The Right to Information Act, 2005 is a people’s right that strengthens the very spirit of democracy. It lays the foundation for accountability, transparency, and mutual trust between the government and the citizens. The RTI Act is not just a legal provision, it is a democratic instrument that bridges the gap between citizens and the government, he noted.
Stressing the importance of citizen awareness, the Governor remarked, the real power of democracy lies in the people. When citizens are aware, the administration becomes accountable. The Right to Information is the cornerstone of this awareness, it empowers citizens and ensures administrative responsibility. Over the past two decades, the RTI Act has transformed governance by promoting transparency, curbing corruption, enhancing citizen participation, and driving administrative reforms.
Calling for a collective effort to strengthen the Act further, Gehlot said, there is a need to hold a thoughtful dialogue on how to reinforce this right in the days to come. I urge the Government and the Information Commission to work together to find positive solutions to the challenges in implementing the Act.
The event was attended by NA Harris, Chairman of the Bangalore Development Authority and MLA; Chief Information Commissioner Ashit Mohan Prasad; Information Commissioner Dr BR Mamata; and other distinguished dignitaries.
