You can be the next RTI chief

A unique campaign has been started by RTI activists to promote a lesser-known law, which says that even an 'aam aadmi' can occupy the big chair

All big things start small. This is the thought behind the movement started by a forum of RTI activists across the country.

Their mission? Rouse the common man to take up the big chair in the information commission.

They are calling on the aam admi to become information commissioners by guiding them through the steps involved in the appointment process.



The campaign

Evoking section 12(5) of the RTI Act 2005 (see box), the team is calling for effective public participation in the process of appointment as information commissioners to Central Information Commissions and State Information Commissions.

"Few people know about the provision," said Krishna Rao, an RTI activist from Mumbai. "There is a strong misconception that only bureaucrats are eligible; any eminent citizen can apply for the post," he added.

The forum

The team, through an exclusive platform, will create awareness, and guide aspirants on aspects like vacancies, the appointment procedure, and tips on how to apply and follow up.

One has to submit their details through the given links (see box) so that the forum will pursue it with concerned authorities, carrying out the appointment process.

Three point agenda

The team has a three point agenda: First, to pressurise the system to appoint eligible candidates from the society. Second, to compel the government to introduce a proper procedure to filter out candidates.

The last, and the most important point if the government ignores applicants and selects its own people without a transparent procedure move courts and argue that the appointments were void.

"Though eminent persons may or may not directly apply themselves, civic groups and responsible citizens should recognise them, and recommend their names for the commission," said JSD Pani, RTI activist and president, Mahiti Hakku Jagruti Vedike.