Right to Information to Right to deny Information

Why in news:

This article is in news because of growing concern that amendments and reinterpretations of the Right to Information (RTI) Act are gradually weakening citizens’ access to information, particularly by expanding the definition of ‘personal information’ and prioritizing privacy over public interest and transparency.

UPSC CSE Relevance:

UPSC CSE in mains examination has focused on Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential in GSII.

UPSC mains PYQ 2023:

E-governance, as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness, transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper the enhancement of these features?

All About RTI:

https://anantamias.com/current-affairs/right-to-information/

New Emerging Issues:

Expanded Definition of “Personal Information” in (DPDP) Act, 2023

• Expand Personal information” very broadly — includes names, family, firms, companies, and even the state.
• If this wider definition is adopted in RTI interpretation, almost all government information could be denied.

Conflict Between RTI and DPDP Act

• DPDP Act imposes heavy fines (₹250 crore) for breaches of personal data.
• Due to this a shift from “Right to Information” to “Right to Deny Information”.
• Basic info such as service records of public officials, assets, or reasons for policy decisions are being denied under the guise of privacy.