Check abuse of RTI applications, says Prez

New Delhi
Oct. 12: President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Monday called for the need to check frivolous RTI applications flooding various government departments which, she pointed out, were severely limiting their response.
Speaking at the inauguration of the fourth annual convention of the Central Information Commission, the President said “A balance needs to be maintained between applications under the Right to Information to public authorities and also ensuring that public authorities are not flooded with applications, some of them of frivolous nature.”
The convention also marks the anniversary of implementation of the Right to Information Act in the country.
She also cautioned on the tendency to view government departments as adversaries.
“Rights given under this Act to our citizens are extensive and, therefore, it is important that there be a deep sense of responsibility,” she said.
The President said that the CIC had a critical role in maintaining the balance.
“There should be a sense of responsibility for more openness on the part of public authorities to ensure that applications are those that genuinely need immediate attention,” she stated. She also asked public authorities to ensure that RTI applications coming from marginalised sections of the society were given priority.
“Applications that result in public benefits, in the timely implementation of schemes; that bring relief and welfare to people; help in citizens getting what is theirs rightfully, should receive the uppermost priority,” the President said.She said efforts should be made to promote the Act in rural areas and by the disadvantaged sections of society.
Addressing the meet, Minister of State for Personnel and Training Prithviraj Chavan said efforts are being made to make changes in the legislation for strengthening the Act.
“An initiative has been taken to bring some legislative changes to make the RTI Act more user friendly,” he said.
Source::DC