In the digital age, access to information is the foundation of democracy. India's enactment of the Right to Information Act (RTI ACT) 2005 is a milestone legislation that promotes translucency, responsibility, and civic participation in governance. The right to Information ACT was sanctioned on the twelfth of October 2005 in order to strengthen democratic principles of vesting power and authority in the hands of the people. Through this Act the government has revolutionized its functions and has created an opportunity for citizens to actively engage in the parliamentary process.

The fact that the government operates in transparency and gives citizens the power to hold it accountable as well as combat corruption highlight true democracy in India. All constitutional authorities, agencies, owned and controlled, also those organizations which are considerably financed by the government comes under the scope of this Act. The Act injunctions the public authorities of union government or state government, to provide prompt response to citizens' solicit for information. Thus , in Thomas Jefferson's words " a well informed citizenry is the best defense against tyranny."

Understanding The RTI Act

The right to information is a fundamental right under Article 19 (1) of the Indian constitution. In the case of Raj Narain vs the State of Uttar Pradesh 1976, the Supreme court held that in Indian democracy, people are masters and have the right to know about the working of government. Thus, the enactment of the Information Act 2005.

This act has provided citizens and media the power to uncover corruption, government progressions, expenditure, policies and many more issues however information relating to internal security, relations with foreign countries, intellectual property rights, cabinet discussions are exempted from the Act.

Aims of RTI Act:

• Citizens empowered to question the government.
• Containing parliamentary corruption.
• Inform citizens on the functioning of the government machinery.
• Ensure transparency of government with the public.

Important provisions under the RTI 2005 Act:

• Section 2(h): "public Authority" means all bodies and authorities under the union government, state government or local. "Substantially funded", directly or indirectly by the public fund also fall within the authority of RTI.
• Section 41(b): government has to maintain and preemptively disclose information.
• Section 7: dictates a time frame for providing information.
• Section 8: only minimum information exempted from disclosure.
• Section 8(1): exempts the disclosure of information which would prejudicially affect the sovereign.
• Section 8(2): serves to balance the right to information with the need to protect certain sensitive information.
• Section 19: mechanism to seek redressal in case one's right to information is denied.
• Section 20: provision of penalties in case of failure to provide information on time.

Role In Democratic Governance:

1. Transparency and Accountability: the RTI Act promotes transparency by ensuring that government activities and decisions are open to public scrutiny. Thus, fostering accountability among public officials as they are held responsible for their actions. By making information readily available corruption and malpractices are reduced within government institution.
    
2. Citizen Empowerment: information laws grant citizens the power to access government-held information. Marginalized communities, including women, minorities and disadvantaged groups are enabled access to information about government schemes, entitlements, and resources, thereby reducing socio-economic disparities and promoting inclusive development.
    
3. Enhancing Public Trust: by promoting transparency and accountability, the RTI Act enhances public trust in government institutions. When information on elected representatives is disclosed to the public, it enforces confidence in the leading regime.
    
4. Citizen Participation: democracy stands for informed citizenry and its participation in parliamentary governance. The RTI Act empowers citizens to actively participate in governance by disclosing certain information. Citizens can use the information obtained to participate in debates, advocate for policy changes and contribute to the decision-making process.
    
5. Preventing Abuse of Power: the Act checks on the abuse of power by parliamentary figures. It allows the public to uncover instances of corruption, nepotism, and bureaucratic inefficiencies, thereby fostering a culture of integrity and ethical governance.

Challenges And Way Forward:
While RTI has contributed significantly to the democratic governance in India, it faces certain challenges ,including bureaucratic resistance, delays in responding in to RTI applications , and the need for the greater proactive disclosure of information . To strengthen the implementation of the RTI Act, there is a need for increased awareness among citizens about their rights , capacity building of public authorities to handle RTI requests efficiently, and reforms to address the loopholes in the existing legislation.

Conclusion
The Right to Information Act of 2005 has emerged as a powerful tool for promoting democratic governance in India. By fostering transparency , accountability , and citizens participation ,the act empowers citizens to actively engage in democratic process and hold their government accountable . As India continues its journey toward more transparent and accountable governance framework ,the RTI Act will remain instrumental in shaping the future of democracy in the country.

Written By:

• Neha Gadgala, BA LLB Hons 1st Year - Lovely Professional University
• Tinotendashe Anotida Sango, BA LLB Hons 1st Year - Lovely Professional University