The Right to Information (RTI) Act is often seen as a “play toy” due to weak enforcement and lack of accountability. Penalties for delays or non-compliance are rarely enforced. Bureaucratic hurdles and a complex filing process make it hard for citizens to access information.
There are loopholes that allow public authorities to avoid sharing data, especially if it’s considered sensitive or commercially important. A recent example highlights this issue. An applicant sought construction permissions for a specific survey number. The technical office’s response, citing Section 7(1) of the RTI Act, stated that the applicant must provide the exact file or approval number. This implies the office lacks information based on survey numbers, which is surprising since land survey numbers are basic to any construction.
Such replies reflect poor record-keeping and misuse of the Act. Once a PIO replies like this, the only option left is an appeal—and then silence. Will any political party or authority act on this misuse? There should be strict penalties, even dismissal, for irresponsible behaviour by PIOs. The RTI Act must be enforced properly. Some PIOs are honest, but all should be held equally accountable.
