Why in news
- A performance report revealed that over 3.85 lakh appeals and complaints remain pending across 28 Information Commissions in India as of June 2026.
Key terms
Information Commission
A statutory quasi-judicial body constituted under the RTI Act, 2005 to hear second appeals.
Section 20 of RTI Act
Empowers commissions to penalize Public Information Officers up to ₹25,000 for unreasonable delays.
Public Information Officer
Designated authority in a public body responsible for providing information under the RTI Act.
Quasi-Judicial Body
An entity with powers resembling a court of law, able to adjudicate matters and impose penalties.
What is the Right to Information Act, 2005?
- Central law enacted under Article 19(1)(a) mandates time-bound disclosure of public information.
- Established Central and State Information Commissions as quasi-judicial appellate authorities.
Key Findings of the 2025-26 Report
- Total backlog stands at 3,85,716 cases as of June 30, 2026, dropping slightly from 4,13,972 cases in 2025.
- Delays are predominantly driven by vacancies of Information Commissioners and non-imposition of penalties under Section 20.
Why it matters
- Undermines transparency, judicial remedies, and citizen access to timely public records.
Prelims facts
- RTI Act 2005 mandates 30-day timeline for general disclosures and 48 hours for life/liberty matters.
Mains discussion
- Vacancies and structural bottlenecks weakening transparency mechanisms in governance.
Source: The Hindu
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