There is a growing perception that the Right to Information Act might lose teeth if the government pushes through certain amendments. At the core of the controversial Right to Information (Amendment) Bill 2018, is the power it gives to the central government to set the term and salaries of state and central Information Commissioners, thus reducing its autonomy. If those trusted to dig out and furnish information to the public are beholden to the central government, then there is little hope for a free and a transparent system. The Opposition for once has acted responsibly by insisting that the bill should be sent to a select committee before it comes up for discussion in Parliament. 

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In post-independent India, the RTI has been hailed as a landmark law that made central and state governments accountable for their actions. As access to information holds the key to power, anyone can monitor and question public projects by seeking details. Such details, as well as those pertaining to a minister’s credentials, have the potential to embarrass the government of the day and damage its reputation. Independent institutions often act as a bulwark against the Executive’s power because governments have a tendency to be autocratic. 

RTI has added more muscle to the checks and balances while keeping a close watch on corruption. Sadly, any government will always resist attempts to ensure greater transparency. Take, for instance, the fate of the original Whistleblowers Protection Act, which was passed four years ago. There are allegations that subsequent amendments have considerably diluted its powers. Similarly, the implementation of the Lokpal Act has now become a long-drawn process, least likely to see the light of the day anytime soon. Lest we forget, scores of RTI activists have been murdered in the recent years.