Governor bats for full digitisation of RTI to deepen transparency

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot on Tuesady called for complete digitisation of the Right to Information (RTI) process to strengthen transparency and deepen public awareness in governance.

He was speaking at a programme held in Bengaluru to mark 20 years of the implementation of the RTI Act. “Increasing the use of information technology at all levels of governance will automatically lead to transparency,” Mr. Gehlot said.

On challenges in implementation, the Governor said misuse of the law, mounting workload on public offices, and inadequate awareness among citizens were key concerns. “It is essential to understand the true power of the RTI Act, prevent its misuse, and ensure that every citizen can effectively exercise this right,” he said.

Describing the RTI Act, 2005, as a “people’s right” that strengthens the spirit of democracy, the Governor observed that it had laid the foundation for accountability, transparency, and mutual trust between the government and citizens.

Strengthen Act

Calling for collective efforts to strengthen the Act further, the Governor urged the government and the Information Commission to hold a constructive dialogue to address implementation challenges. He also suggested expeditious disposal of pending appeals before the commission.