Right to Information – is it only for low level functionaries?
The Right to Information Act was passed in 2005 with the express intent of bringing in transparency in the functioning of public authorities. “Information” as defined therein means “any material in any form, including records, documents, memos, e-mails, opinions, advices, press releases, circulars, orders, logbooks, contracts, reports, papers, samples, models, data material held in any electronic form and information relating to any private body which can be accessed by a public authority under any law for the time being in force”. The definition of “public authority” as given therein means “any authority or body or institution of self- government established or constituted— (a) by or under the Constitution; (b) by any other law made by Parliament; (c) by any other law made by State Legislature; (d) by notification issued or order made by the appropriate Government, and includes any—(i) body owned, controlled or substantially financed; (ii) non-Government organization substantially fin...