In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law known as :[2011...
Government of India's Enacted Law: Right to Information Act
The Government of India enacted a law in October 2005, known as the Right to Information Act. This act was a significant step towards promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
Key Points:
1. Objective: The Right to Information Act aims to empower citizens by providing them with the right to access information held by public authorities. It promotes transparency, accountability, and participation in the decision-making process.
2. Salient Features:
- Applicability: The act is applicable to all states and union territories of India, except Jammu and Kashmir.
- Public Authorities: It covers all public authorities, including government departments, public sector undertakings, and NGOs substantially financed by the government.
- Right to Information: It grants every citizen the right to seek information from public authorities.
- Obligations of Public Authorities: Public authorities are required to maintain records, publish certain information proactively, and provide information upon request.
- Timeframe: The act stipulates a maximum time limit of 30 days for providing information, with certain exceptions.
- Information Exemptions: Certain categories of information, such as national security, personal privacy, and commercial confidence, are exempted from disclosure.
3. Role of Central Information Commission (CIC): The Central Information Commission was established under the act to ensure the proper implementation of the right to information. It is responsible for hearing appeals and complaints regarding non-compliance with the act.
4. Benefits:
- Empowering Citizens: The act enables citizens to actively participate in governance and hold public authorities accountable.
- Curbing Corruption: By increasing transparency, the act helps in curbing corruption and promoting good governance.
- Strengthening Democracy: It strengthens the democratic fabric of the country by promoting citizen engagement and informed decision-making.
In conclusion, the Government of India enacted the Right to Information Act in October 2005 to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment. This act has played a crucial role in ensuring access to information and fostering a more transparent and accountable governance system in India.
In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law known as :[2011...
Right to Information Act
The correct answer to the given question is option 'B', which is the Right to Information Act. Let's understand the details of this act.
Introduction
The Right to Information Act, 2005 was enacted by the Government of India in October 2005. It is a landmark legislation that empowers the citizens of India to seek information from public authorities. The act aims to promote transparency and accountability in the functioning of government bodies.
Key Provisions
The Right to Information Act contains several key provisions that ensure the effective implementation of the act. Some of the important provisions are as follows:
1. Right to Information: Under this act, every citizen has the right to access information from public authorities. This information can be obtained by submitting a written request to the concerned authority.
2. Obligations of Public Authorities: Public authorities are required to maintain records and provide information to citizens as per the provisions of the act. They are also obligated to publish certain information proactively, making it easily accessible to the public.
3. Time-bound Response: The act mandates that public authorities must respond to information requests within a specified time frame. In case of delays, valid reasons must be provided to the applicant.
4. Exemptions: While the act promotes transparency, it also recognizes certain exemptions to protect sensitive information. These exemptions include national security, privacy, trade secrets, etc.
5. Appellate Mechanism: If the information requested is denied or not provided within the stipulated time, the act provides for an appellate mechanism. Citizens can file an appeal to the relevant Information Commission for a review of the decision.
Objectives
The Right to Information Act aims to achieve the following objectives:
1. Promote Transparency: The act intends to bring transparency in the functioning of government bodies by ensuring access to information for citizens.
2. Empower Citizens: By providing the right to seek information, the act empowers citizens to actively participate in governance and hold public authorities accountable.
3. Reduce Corruption: The act acts as a deterrent against corruption by making government officials accountable for their actions and decisions.
4. Enhance Efficiency: The act encourages efficient functioning of public authorities by promoting timely and accurate dissemination of information.
Conclusion
The Right to Information Act, 2005 is a significant step towards ensuring transparency and accountability in the Indian governance system. It empowers citizens to exercise their right to access information from public authorities, thereby promoting a more open and accountable government.
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