New Delhi 09 November : Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla inaugurated the 15th Annual Convention of the Central Information Commission at Vigyan Bhawan today.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Birla lauded the role and contribution of Central Information Commission. He observed that the Information Commission has upheld the values of public welfare and transparency and empowered democracy, through the Right to Information Act. He noted that the nation has set new benchmarks of socio-economic transformation in its 75 year long journey as a democracy. Referring to legislation, Shri Birla observed that keeping in view public welfare, legislative institutions at the Central and State levels have worked to empower citizens, uphold peoples’ rights and ensure accountability and transparency of the Governance apparatus.
Referring to important changes resulting from the Right to Information Act, Shri Birla opined that e-governance, quick exchange of information and transparency in governance have curbed corruption and strengthened the rule of law. He felt that a corruption free India has an important role in Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India, which may be brought to reality through public participation.
Mentioning about the increasing confidence of the people in governance and administration, Shri Birla observed that the people’s confidence has been strengthened by quick dissemination of information and transparent implementation of policies due to the Right to Information Act. He added that the weaker sections of society have benefited from steps taken towards corruption free India. Shri Birla also cautioned against the misuse of RTI, mentioning that it is necessary to understand the intention of the RTI applicant before processing applications.
At the end, Shri Birla conveyed his best wishes to all stakeholders for meaningful discussions during the Convention, being organized during Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
Minister of State (Independent Charge) in the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Earth Sciences and MoS in Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh also participated in the Convention. Chief Information Commissioner Shri Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha delivered the welcome address.
