A delegation of civil society groups met Rahul Gandhi to discuss concerns over RTI amendments in the DPDP Act. This meeting highlighted the potential dangers the amendments pose to transparency and accountability, especially in the context of journalists, academics, and activists.
Civil Society Groups Raise Concerns Over DPDP Act and RTI Amendments
The delegation included Nikhil Dey, Anjali Bhardwaj, Amrita Johri, and Apar Gupta from various civil society groups. They presented their concerns about the impact of Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act, which amends Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act. This amendment could limit access to personal information, restricting citizens’ and journalists’ ability to hold the government accountable.
Rahul Gandhi Vows to Address RTI Amendments Under DPDP Act with INDIA Coalition
During the meeting, Rahul Gandhi assured the delegation that he would bring the issue to the INDIA coalition leaders. Furthermore, Gandhi emphasized that the government, under the pretext of protecting privacy, was undermining transparency and democratic oversight. Furthermore, he expressed concerns that these amendments would make it easier for the government to shield itself from public scrutiny.
The Impact of DPDP Act Amendments on RTI and Public Accountability
Gandhi noted, “The government is attempting to shield itself from scrutiny, undermining transparency and weakening democratic oversight.” He reaffirmed that Congress would address this issue with the INDIA coalition to protect citizens’ right to information.
Privacy vs. Transparency
The amendments to the RTI Act through the DPDP Act have sparked serious concerns. Section 44(3) now allows the government to exempt all personal information from disclosure, even if that information is tied to public activities or interests. Bhardwaj, from the National Campaign for People’s Right to Information, criticized the amendment, saying, “With this amendment, the government gets sweeping power to deny any personal information for seeking accountability.” She pointed out that the RTI Act already had safeguards to protect personal privacy while ensuring public access to information.
Source: The New Indian Express
