What to do if Punjab govt amended RTI Act to reduce scope of RTI
2 years ago
I requested list of hospital where posts of doctors vacant on 4aug, Punjab govt Amended RTI Act on 12-aug with reference of any supreme Court s decision. (Which includes they are not liable to disclose records related to personal information, qualifications, medical records, treatment, medicines, list of hospitals). How can I get list of public hospitals in Case District where Post vacant.
Jagannath S Pawar
Responded 2 years ago
A.Hire a good lawyer and see if amended provisions really apply to your case. Even then you can still file appeal to the concerned Appellate authorities. If you still not satisfied or you are being avoided on frivolous reasons you can file Writ Petition in High Court for necessary directions.
Citizens have the right to access "public records that are in the possession of public authorities" under the RTI Act. You can make an RTI request, and the authority must provide the requested information within a reasonable timeframe. The Punjab administration has only made one modification, which is in relation to the Chief Information Commissioner.
Thank you very much.
Ayantika Mondal @ Prime Legal
Responded 2 years ago
Right To Information under the RTI Act enables citizens to access ‘public records that are in the custody of public authorities. you can file an RTI application and the information has to be furnished within the appropriate period by the authority. The only amendment made by the Punjab government is with regards to the Chief Information Commissioner and nothing else.
Thank you.