Mumbai: RTI activist Anil Galgali has urged Chief Information Commissioner Rahul Pandey to issue necessary directions for the introduction of dedicated online RTI portals for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Currently, both these major agencies lack any online RTI mechanism, causing inconvenience to citizens.
Current Status of RTI in Maharashtra
Galgali highlighted that while several government departments in Maharashtra have already adopted online RTI systems, citizens continue to face difficulties due to the absence of comprehensive online RTI portals in these two key institutions. During his meeting with the Chief Information Commissioner, the discussion focused on the current status of RTI applications, first appeals, and second appeals filed before public authorities across the state. The challenges faced by citizens in accessing information were also deliberated upon.
Proposed Measures for Transparency
Galgali proposed the creation of a public database containing RTI applications, replies provided by departments, disclosed documents, and decisions rendered under the RTI Act. He argued that such a database would reduce the need for repeated applications seeking similar information and would further strengthen transparency in governance. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the growing number of second appeals filed by single applicants in large volumes, which places an additional burden on the Commission's functioning and may impact the timely disposal of appeals filed by other citizens.
Emphasis on Proactive Disclosure
Chief Information Commissioner Rahul Pandey emphasized that all public authorities in the state must strictly comply with Section 4 of the RTI Act, 2005. He stated that the Commission is taking necessary steps to ensure that maximum information is made available to citizens through proactive disclosure. Effective implementation of Section 4, he noted, would significantly reduce the number of RTI applications while making governance more transparent and citizen-centric.
Galgali urged Pandey to give necessary directions for the introduction of dedicated online RTI portals for BMC and MMRDA, which would streamline the process and enhance accessibility for citizens seeking information from these important municipal and development authorities.
