New Delhi:
In a step aimed at further strengthening the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the Centre today launched the online portal "rtionline.gov.in" to make it possible for citizens to file RTI queries online.
The move, in collaboration with the State Bank of India (SBI), allows citizens to also make payments for RTI applications either through the SBI and its affiliate banks or through credit and debit cards of banks.
Terming the RTI as "a weapon in the hands of the people," Minister of Personnel, public grievances and pensions, V Narayanasamy launched the portal which can be used by Indian citizens to use their right to Information.
The procedure involves citizens logging onto the website and registering themselves one time. They can then file RTIs with a host of ministries, NHRC, UPSC. The next step involves including banks and other public authorities under the online filing system.
Since becoming law in 2005, the Right to Information has been used by millions of Indians to not only demand accountability from their government but also in getting services.
In 2005, barely 24,000 RTIs were filed at the start of the law.
In 2011-2012, the number was 6.6 lakhs.
"Had the government started digitizing all the information as mandated by RTI, then today's crisis of the missing coal files would not have arisen" said commodore Batra who has been leading the effort to allow Indian citizens abroad the option.
Ironically, as the Centre makes it easy for citizens to file RTI online, Parliament is all set to debate amendments to the RTI Act which will take political parties out of the reach of queries by citizens.
Speaking to NDTV, V Narayanasamy added "I am thoroughly convinced that political parties do not come under RTI as they don't get substantial funding."
Transparency seekers meanwhile have said that they will continue to fight for greater access to information including placing political parties.