The Supreme Court’s Call to Action on Information Commissions Vacancies
The Supreme Court of India has recently voiced its concerns regarding the ongoing vacancies in both state and central information commissions. This raises significant questions about the effectiveness of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, a pivotal tool for transparency and accountability in governance.
Vacancies: A Growing Concern
Advocate Prashant Bhushan brought to light the issue during a recent hearing, noting that despite a 2019 judgment from the Supreme Court that outlined specific timelines for appointments to these commissions, the situation has only worsened. This stagnation not only undermines the RTI Act but also hampers citizens’ right to access information.
Supreme Court’s Directive
In response to these concerns, the Supreme Court has instructed both state governments and the Centre to expedite the selection process for filling these crucial vacancies. The court has mandated that compliance reports be filed promptly to ensure that the RTI Act remains robust and functional.
The Importance of the RTI Act
The RTI Act is fundamental in promoting transparency in public administration, allowing citizens to request information from public authorities. The continued vacancies in information commissions threaten to render this right ineffective. It is essential for the government to act swiftly to restore faith in this vital legislation.
As we await compliance and action from the authorities, it is vital to remember that a well-functioning RTI system is not just a legal obligation but a cornerstone of democracy.
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