The Right to Information Bill, 2005 was passed by the Lok Sabha on May 11, 2005, and by the Rajya Sabha on May 12, 2005. It received assent on June 15, 2005, and came into force as The Right to Information Act, 2005 (22 of 2005).
Highlights of the Right to Information, 2005
- Universal Right: All citizens possess the right to information.
- Broad Definition of Information: Includes any mode of information in any form of record, document, e-mail, circular, press release, contract, sample, or electronic data.
- Scope: Covers inspection of work, documents, records, and their certified copies, information in diskettes, floppies, tapes, video cassettes, and any electronic mode or stored-information in computers.
- Timeframe for Information: Information can be obtained within 30 days from the date of request; in matters of life or liberty, it can be obtained within 48 hours.
- Obligation of Public Authorities: Must provide information upon written or electronic request.
- Exemptions: Certain information is prohibited.
- Third Party Information: Restrictions apply.
- Appeal Process: Appeals against decisions of the Central or State Information Commissions can be made to a senior-ranking officer.
- Penalties: Rs. 250/- per day for refusal to accept an application or delay in providing information, up to a maximum of Rs. 25,000.
- Judicial Exemption: No court can entertain suits, applications, or other proceedings regarding orders made under the act.
- Information Commissions: Central and State Information Commissions to be constituted by the respective governments.
With the passage of this bill, India joined 55 countries with comprehensive laws protecting the citizens’ right to information. Nine states—Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, Goa, and Madhya Pradesh—already had right to information laws.