The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has been informed that the state’s online Right to Information (RTI) portal will soon be made publicly accessible. The portal aims to streamline the process of filing and accessing RTI requests, making government information more transparent and easily accessible to citizens.
Background:
The issue arose during a hearing where the court was informed about the ongoing efforts to launch the online RTI portal in Jammu and Kashmir. The state has been working on modernizing the RTI process to ensure easier access to government records and information. This move is expected to enhance transparency and accountability within the government, empowering citizens to seek information more efficiently.
Court’s Rationale:
The court acknowledged the significance of the online portal in promoting transparency and ensuring that citizens’ right to information is upheld. The judges emphasized the importance of making the portal user-friendly and accessible to the general public, which would facilitate the timely processing of RTI requests and help strengthen the democratic process in the region.
Existing Measures:
Currently, the RTI process in Jammu and Kashmir is available through traditional means, such as physical applications, which can often be cumbersome and time-consuming. The introduction of the online portal is a step towards modernizing the system and improving the efficiency of government services. It will allow people to file requests, track their status, and access information with greater ease.
Conclusion:
The Jammu and Kashmir High Court’s hearing signals a positive step towards improving the transparency and accessibility of public information in the region. The upcoming online RTI portal is expected to empower citizens, provide them with a more streamlined method of accessing government information, and contribute to a more transparent governance system.