Right To Information

"Right to Information has an important economic dimension, as it embraces not only political freedom but also the freedom to lead a life with dignity, unfettered by domination and discrimination."

The Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, has called upon the people to be conscious of our collective responsibilities and national goals. Citing the Right to Information Act as a powerful instrument of Citizen’s empowerment, he emphasized the need for contributing to nation building.

“In keeping with the commitment made by the Congress Party the right to Information Act is a historic legislation passed on 15th June 2005. Earlier, there was a weak Freedom of Information Act. Now, in keeping with our belief that information is an entitlement, we have a strong Right to Information Act whose theme is greater disclosures. It will bring about transparency and accountability in public administration at all levels in significant measure. Citizens in villages, towns and cities have been empowered to demand and actually get information on policies, programmes and projects that affect their day-to-day lives. This enforcement of this Act is one of the most important means by which another equally historic legislation passed by Parliament last month The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act will be subject to continuous social audit and be under constant public scrutiny for effective implementation. As an example, muster rolls and the list of public works would, for the first time, be publicly available. Social action groups, NGOs and civil society organizations can use the provisions of the Right to Information Act on behalf of the poor and weaker sections of society so as to make sure that the various rural development and social welfare schemes deliver benefits to the people as intended.”

- SONIA GANDHI