Belagavi: Prakash Narayan Channal, Commissioner of the Karnataka Information Commission's Belagavi Bench, announced that the number of applications received under the Right to Information (RTI) Act has increased significantly. To address this, the commission has formulated a plan to hear and dispose of 6,000 to 7,000 applications annually.
RTI Act as a Pillar of Democracy
In a press release, Channal stated that the RTI Act serves as a solid foundation for democracy and is inherently pro-people. He described the RTI as the most revolutionary law in independent India. Enacted on October 12, 2005, the Act aims to make government information easily accessible to the common citizen. Karnataka holds the distinction of being the first state to implement this legislation.
Record Disposal of Appeals
The Karnataka Right to Information Commission has achieved a milestone by disposing of a record 40,000 second appeal cases nationwide in the past year. The Belagavi Bench alone hears between 40 and 60 applications daily, both offline and online. Priority is given to applications from rural areas, addressing issues such as drinking water, roads, power supply, cleanliness, health, and basic infrastructure.
Accountability and Penalties
Channal emphasized that disciplinary action is taken against officers who fail to provide information. The commission issues recommendations from inquiry committees, imposes fines, and orders compensation to applicants. This ensures transparency and accountability in government functioning.
