Gujarat overhauls RTI Act : free info and digital access

Gandhinagar, Gujarat — In a landmark move poised to significantly bolster transparency and streamline citizen access to information, the Gujarat government has announced sweeping changes to the Right to Information (RTI) Act. Effective immediately, all state departments are now mandated to provide up to five pages of information free of charge, signaling a clear commitment to fostering greater openness and accountability.

The crucial amendments stem from comprehensive recommendations submitted by the Gujarat Information Commission through its Annual Administrative Report for 2023-24, presented to the Legislative Assembly. The swift approval of these recommendations underscores the government’s intent to minimize bureaucratic hurdles and empower citizens.

“This is a massive step forward for transparency in Gujarat,” stated a prominent RTI activist, who wished to remain anonymous, reacting to the news. “Providing the first five pages for free is a significant relief for common citizens who often found even small fees prohibitive. It encourages people to seek information without financial burden.”

A cornerstone of the new directives is the emphasis on digital delivery. If information is requested via email or online, departments are now instructed to send it electronically, eliminating the need for physical copies. Similarly, applicants permitted to inspect records can now photograph permissible information and copy it to a portable storage device, further reducing paper consumption and processing time. “This digital push is long overdue,” remarked a government IT official. “It will drastically cut down on paperwork and accelerate the information delivery process.”

Beyond individual requests, the government is pushing for proactive disclosure. All public authorities have been directed to regularly update information under Section 4(1)(b) of the RTI Act, ensuring that frequently requested details are readily available free of cost or at a minimal printing charge. This includes vital data on actions taken against illegal constructions, encroachments, and details of permits, licenses, and approvals granted – crucial information for public oversight.

Furthermore, a significant improvement for applicants is the introduction of automatic SMS/email notifications at each stage of the application process. This will ensure citizens are consistently aware of their application’s progress. Public Information Officers and First Appellate Authorities are also now required to issue detailed ‘Speaking Orders’ for every first appeal, ensuring clear reasoning and accountability.