The Right to Information (RTI) Act, enacted in 2005, is a landmark legislation that has revolutionized the way citizens access information from public authorities in India. It empowers citizens to seek information, promoting transparency and accountability in governance. In Haryana, the RTI Act has been instrumental in fostering a more open and responsible government.
Key Features of the RTI Act in Haryana:
Right to Access Information: Any citizen of India can request information from a "public authority" (a body of government or "instrumentality of State") in Haryana. This includes departments of the Haryana government, local bodies, and government-funded institutions.
Timely Response: Public authorities are required to respond to RTI requests expeditiously, typically within 30 days.
Designated Officials: Each public authority has designated Public Information Officers (PIOs) and First Appellate Authorities (FAAs) to handle RTI requests and appeals.
Affordable Access: The fee for filing an RTI application in Haryana is nominal, making it accessible to all citizens.
Proactive Disclosure: Public authorities are mandated to proactively disclose certain categories of information on their websites, reducing the need for citizens to file formal RTI requests.
How to File an RTI Application in Haryana:
Identify the PIO: Determine the correct PIO for the public authority you wish to request information from. This information is usually available on the authority's website or notice board.
Write the Application: Write a clear and concise application in English or Hindi, specifying the information you require. Include your name, address, and contact details.
Pay the Fee: Pay the prescribed fee through a bank draft, treasury challan, Indian Postal Order, or cash.
Submit the Application: Submit the application to the PIO in person or by post.
Appeals Process:
If you are dissatisfied with the response of the PIO, you can file an appeal with the First Appellate Authority within 30 days. If you are still not satisfied, you can file a second appeal with the State Information Commission (SIC), Haryana.
Impact and Success Stories:
The RTI Act has had a significant impact in Haryana, empowering citizens to hold public authorities accountable and access information on various issues such as:
Public Works: Citizens have used RTI to expose corruption and delays in public works projects.
Social Welfare Schemes: RTI has helped ensure that beneficiaries receive their entitlements under various social welfare schemes.
Environmental Issues: Citizens have used RTI to access information on environmental clearances and pollution control measures.
Police and Administration: RTI has been used to seek information on police investigations and administrative decisions.
Challenges and Concerns:
Despite its success, the implementation of the RTI Act in Haryana faces some challenges:
Lack of Awareness: Many citizens are still unaware of their rights under the RTI Act.
Delay in Response: Some public authorities fail to respond to RTI requests within the stipulated time frame.
Harassment of Applicants: In some cases, RTI applicants have faced harassment and intimidation.
Lack of Transparency in Appointments: Concerns have been raised about the lack of transparency in the appointment of Information Commissioners.
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