Gujarat Information Commission cracks down on police practices hindering RTI access

By A Representative 

In a significant ruling aimed at upholding the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the Gujarat Information Commission has issued a stern directive to curb practices that obstruct citizens' access to information. The commission recently ruled against the Khergam (Navsari) Police Station for repeatedly summoning RTI applicants to pay fees or collect information in person, a practice deemed unnecessary and burdensome.

A similar case has now surfaced involving the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DYSP) office in Junagadh. According to the commission’s findings, an RTI applicant was asked to personally visit the DYSP office to pay a fee of ₹146. When the applicant did not comply, the requested information was withheld. The commission took serious note of this practice, describing it as a violation of the RTI Act's spirit.

Quoting from the document, the commission stated: "The applicant was called in person to the DYSP office to pay a fee of ₹146, and since the applicant did not visit, the information was not provided."

In response, the commission has directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to issue instructions to all police units within 15 days to stop such practices. The commission warned that continued insistence on in-person appearances or delays in providing information could lead to penalties under Section 20(1) and disciplinary action under Section 20(2) of the RTI Act. The DGP’s office has complied, issuing a circular on July 17 to ensure adherence to the commission’s orders.

This ruling not only provides relief to RTI applicants but also underscores the need for systemic reforms in administrative practices. The commission emphasized that ensuring accountability at higher levels, such as offices in Gandhinagar, is critical to fulfilling the RTI Act’s objective of transparency.

The RTI Helpline, which highlighted the issue, welcomed the decision, noting that it reinforces the law’s intent to make information accessible without unnecessary hurdles. The commission’s order and the DGP’s compliance letter have been attached for reference.

This development marks a significant step toward strengthening transparency and accountability in Gujarat’s public administration, ensuring that citizens can exercise their right to information without undue obstacles.