Sir,
This refers to article “Decade of RTI ” by Dr Raja Muzaffar Daily Excelsior April 3rd. I believe that implementation and awareness of RTI Act has declined from last 3 to 4 years. As the author has said more than 2500 Government officers were trained by Government in 75 RTI workshops between 2011 to 2014, but unfortunately this has come down to mere 75 officers being trained during 2014- 2018. People are also not well aware about the provisions of RTI Act. PIOs who were trained in 2011 to 2015 have either retired or have been promoted. 70 percent of the existing PIOs especially Under Secretaries , BDOs , Tehsildars are not aware about their role under RTI Act. Similarly the 1st Appellate authorities under RTI Act are also not well versed with JK RTI Act 2009. Inspite of High Court directions Govt is not implementing RTI Act in letter and spirit.
Raashed Ashraf Rather
Kralpora, Srinagar
II
It is quite dismaying that the successive State Governments do not attack much importance to RTI Act that was implemented in the State with much fanfare and expectations.
In the beginning the Act evoked much enthusiasm among public and the authorities who were supposed to deal with its provisions, took it seriously and responded to public queries promptly. After its dilution by the NC Government it lost much of its sheen. The RTI Act became a tootless tiger whom everybody now looks with disdain.
It will be a great setback to RTI movement in the State. In case Government does not come to its rescue. RTI has empowered the commonman to have access to babudom, and seek answers from them for various queries. Hope new dispensation will restore its sanctity.
Pawan Gupta
Samba
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