Right to Information week was celebrated at DC Conference Hall, Noklak on 12th October 2022 under the theme, ‘RTI- A tool for Transparent and Accountable Governance’.
SDO (Civil) Noklak Sadar C. Phuniang stated that The Right to Information is a powerful tool that gives a chance to improve the way the government and its employees function. He mentioned that the RTI objective is to promote transparency and accountability in the working of every Public Authority and to contain corruption since it is a tool to know the truth.
Informing the gathering, Phuniang said a celebration of RTI week is being held for the first time in the district. He expressed his gratitude to the Commission in this regard. While elaborating on the RTI, he opined that the momentum of RTI has not fully picked up in the district, and hence, awareness of RTI is necessary. Further, He advised the gathering not to misuse the RTI Act by malicious intention or otherwise but to use this as a tool for bringing a common good and positive changes for the benefit of society. He added on the advantages that can happen with the correct usages by the citizens as empowered through the Act and elaborated on the possible damages that may cause due to its misuse
In his PowerPoint presentation, SDO (Civil) Noklak Hq. Mongo Khiamniungan spoke on the importance of RTI, he said, RTI is considered the second independence which is simple and easy, Cheap, Reliable, time-bound, and citizens friendly. Under RTI, one has the right to take certified copies of documents, notes, etc which can be obtained information in the form of xerox, printout or disk, etc. However, the information may be refused, if the disclosure of information could affect the sovereignty, integrity, strategic, scientific, or economic interests of India or relations with a foreign state, he added.
OC Fire & Emergency Services Theuosielie Pielie in his PowerPoint presentations elaborated on the benefits of RTI where he encouraged informed citizens to promote transparency and accountability in government functioning. He also stated that RTI is not the solution by itself, it is the first step by which citizens can claim their rights under the law and the Constitution. Further, He explained in detail the tips for writing an application, obtaining information, and penalty.
Earlier the programme was chaired by DPA Noklak, Tanghiu. The programme was organized by Nagaland Information Commission in collaboration with District Administration Noklak and was attended by various departmental officials.
(K.K. Chim, IA Noklak)
