RTI

University of Burdwan · LL.B. Semester 3 · LOC 3.3.7 (B)

Unit I

Introduction to the Right to Information Act of 2005 · - Historical and Background Context: A comprehensive overview of the historical evolution and the socio-political context leading to the enactment of the Right to Information Act, 2005. This includes the legislative journey, the influence of global transparency movements, and the domestic demand for greater government accountability. · - Objectives of the Act: An exploration of the fundamental objectives underpinning the Right to Information Act, with an emphasis on promoting transparency, accountability, and the democratic participation of citizens in governance. · - Constitutional Basis and Judicial Interpretations: An in-depth analysis of the constitutional provisions that form the basis of the Right to Information in India, alongside landmark judgments by the Supreme Court that have shaped and expanded the understanding and application of this right. · - The Right to Information and Related Legislative Frameworks · Interaction with Other Laws: A critical examination of the relationship between the Right to Information Act and other pertinent legislations, such as: · - The Official Secrets Act of 1923 · - The Public Records Act of 1993 · - The Public Records Rules of 1997 · - The Freedom of Information Act of 2002 · - The Commission of Inquiry Act of 1952 · - The Commission of Inquiry (Central) Rules of 1972

Unit II

The Right to Information Act and Its Implementation · - Definitions and Obligations: A detailed exposition of the key definitions provided within the RTI Act, alongside an analysis of the specific rights it grants to individuals and the corresponding obligations imposed on public authorities. · - Central and State Information Commissions: An exploration of the structure, powers, and functions of the Central Information Commission and the various State Information Commissions, highlighting their roles in the enforcement and facilitation of the RTI Act. · - Appeals and Penalties: A comprehensive review of the appeals process and the penalties prescribed under the RTI Act, supplemented with relevant case studies to illustrate practical applications and implications.

Unit III

The Right to Information and Good Governance · - Governance and Bureaucratic Responses: An examination of how the RTI Act influences governance practices and bureaucratic behavior, with a focus on enhancing transparency and accountability. · - Whistleblower Protection: An analysis of the protection mechanisms for whistleblowers within the framework of the RTI Act, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding individuals who expose corruption and malpractice. · - RTI and Good Governance in the Context of Globalization, Liberalization, and Privatization: A discussion on the role of the RTI Act in promoting good governance amidst the processes of globalization, liberalization, and privatization, considering the challenges and opportunities these phenomena present.

Unit IV

Advanced Perspectives on the Right to Information · - Ecological Perspective on RTI: An exploration of how the Right to Information can be leveraged to address environmental issues, promote ecological justice, and enhance transparency in environmental governance, A reflection on Aarhus Convention - Lessons from RTI: Sakaala and Public Service Guarantee Act: An analysis of the Sakaala initiative and the Public Service Guarantee Act, examining their implementation, successes, and challenges, and drawing lessons for the broader application of the RTI Act. · - Drafting RTI Applications and Appeals: A Practical Guide: A practical session on the techniques and best practices for drafting effective RTI applications and appeals, providing a step-by-step guide to empower individuals to utilize the RTI Act efficiently.

Unit V

Comparative Perspectives on RTI · - A comparative overview of Freedom of Information (FOI) regimes globally, identifying best practices. · - Sweden- The first country to enact RTI law · - United States · - European Union · Référencés : · 1. Acharya, N. K., "Commentary on Right to Information Act, 2005", 7th ed., Asia Law House, Hyderabad, 2008. · 2. Barowalia, J. H., "Commentary on the Right to Information Act", Universal Law Publications. · 3. Das, P. K., "Handbook on The Right to Information Act". · 4. Desai, S., "The Right to Information Act Book". · 5. Ryder, Rodney D., "The Right to Information: Law-Policy-Practice". · Semester – IV