What is RTI?
RTI stands for Right to Information as a fundamental right of citizens of Pakistan acknowledged under Article 19/A of the Constitution. The Punjab Transparency & Right to Information Act 2013 provides detailed procedure for citizens to file RTI Application to PIOs and to assail the orders of PIOs before Punjab Information Commission. A citizen in exercise of RTI can have access to information in all matters of public importance subject to regulation and reasonable restrictions imposed by law.
What are benefits of RTI?
- RTI provides an opportunity to citizens to comment on public services and performance of public bodies.
- It develops public opinion about public services and functions of public bodies which is necessary for democracy.
- It helps the authorities to identify gaps and lapses in governance.
- It contributes to improve public services.
- It ensures efficient and corruption free public services.
- It makes public functionaries / bodies responsive to citizens.
Pro-active Disclosure of Public Information: (Sec-4 of the Act);
b. Powers & functions of officers,
c. Norms and Criteria set by the public body for discharge of its functions
d. Acts, Ordinances, Rules, Regulations, Notifications etc.,
g. Directory of officers with remunerations, perks & privileges
i. Amounts of subsidies with detail of beneficiaries,(N/A)
j, Beneficiaries of concessions, permits or authorizations,(N/A)
k. Facilities for citizens to obtain information (email, helpline, through PIO)
l. Name, designation & particulars of PIO/s
m. Any other information notified in official gazette
Citizens are also advised to visit RTI Punjab Commission website and fill the online application form to directly submit the application to Commission.