Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 – UPSC Prelims Notes
Right to Information is embedded in Art 19(1)(a) of the Constitution (Freedom of Speech & Expression).
Recognized by the SC as a fundamental right.
Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 – UPSC Prelims Notes Introduction Quote : “Information is the currency of democracy.” – Thomas Jefferson RTI as a Fundamental Right :
RTI is embedded in Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution (Freedom of Speech & Expression). Recognized by the Supreme Court as a fundamental right. Objective :
Empower citizens. Promote transparency & accountability in governance. Contain corruption and improve decision-making . Evolution of RTI in India 1986 : The genesis of the RTI law began with the Supreme Court ruling in the case of Mr. Kulwal vs. Jaipur Municipal Corporation. The court held that the right to freedom of speech and expression guaranteed by Article 19 of the Constitution includes the right to information Article 19(1)(a). 1994 : Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) started the first grassroots movement for RTI. 1996 : National Campaign for People’s RTI (NCPRI) drafted the first RTI bill. 1997 : Tamil Nadu became the first state to pass an RTI law. 2002 : …