Economic Survey calls for re-examination of RTI Act, Pg6

Key Highlights:

• The Economic Survey 2025-26 suggests re-examining the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005.
• The survey proposes exempting disclosures on the deliberative process of policy making.
• It suggests a ministerial veto with parliamentary oversight to prevent disclosures that might hinder governance.
• The survey compares the RTI Act with similar laws in the US, UK, and Sweden, noting differences in exemptions.

Detailed Insights:

• The survey acknowledges the RTI Act as a powerful tool for accountability but warns against it becoming an "end in itself".
• It suggests exempting brainstorming notes, working papers, and draft comments until they become part of the final decision record.
• The survey highlights that unlike the RTI Act, international laws often exempt internal personnel rules and inter-agency memos.
• Concerns are raised that disclosing every draft or remark may lead officials to be cautious and avoid bold ideas.
• The survey emphasizes the importance of officials being held accountable for decisions they endorse, not for every thought expressed during deliberation.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005: Legislation providing citizens access to government-held information.
• Deliberative Process: Internal discussions and consultations involved in policy formulation.
• Ministerial Veto: The power of a minister to overrule or reject a decision, subject to oversight.