CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Maharashtra government has withdrawn a controversial provision in its newly notified Right to Information (RTI) Rules, 2026, just a week after its introduction, following widespread criticism from transparency activists, legal experts, and civil society groups. The now-revoked clause required citizens to disclose the purpose for seeking information under the RTI Act, a move many argued was contrary to the spirit and legal framework of the landmark transparency law.
The provision had sparked concerns that applicants could face unnecessary scrutiny, discouraging whistleblowers and ordinary citizens from exercising their right to access government information. Critics warned that forcing applicants to reveal their motives could undermine transparency and create opportunities for arbitrary rejection of requests.
The government’s swift reversal has raised questions about the drafting and legal vetting process behind the revised RTI framework. The broader RTI Rules, 2026, had already attracted criticism for measures including higher application and appeal fees, mandatory proof of citizenship, and restrictions on application formats. Transparency advocates argued that these changes could make information access more difficult and expensive for citizens.
The withdrawal of the purpose-disclosure clause is being viewed as a significant victory for RTI activists and supporters of open, accountable governance, reinforcing the principle that citizens need not justify their reasons for seeking information.
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