{"id":17109,"date":"2026-03-15T07:52:32","date_gmt":"2026-03-15T07:52:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/?p=17109"},"modified":"2026-03-15T07:57:09","modified_gmt":"2026-03-15T07:57:09","slug":"power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/","title":{"rendered":"Power To The People A Critical Analysis Of The Right To Information Act 2005"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"introduction\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Right to Information Act, 2005 was a pivotal moment in India\u2019s democratic governance. Passed by the Parliament of India and fully implemented from 12 October 2005, this law provided a framework that allows citizens to access information held by public authorities. It promotes transparency and accountability in how the government operates.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#How_the_Constitution_Supports_Our_Right_to_Know\" >How the Constitution Supports Our Right to Know<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Early_Recognition_Raj_Narain_Case_1975\" >Early Recognition: Raj Narain Case (1975)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Judges_Transfer_Case_1981\" >Judges&#8217; Transfer Case (1981)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Peoples_Union_for_Civil_Liberties_Case_2003\" >People&#8217;s Union for Civil Liberties Case (2003)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Main_Points_of_the_2005_Right_to_Information_Act\" >Main Points of the 2005 Right to Information Act<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Citizens_Right_to_Information\" >Citizens&#8217; Right to Information<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Public_Information_Officers\" >Public Information Officers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Time_Limit_for_Providing_Information\" >Time Limit for Providing Information<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#On_Disclosure\" >On Disclosure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Ways_We_Get_Information\" >Ways We Get Information<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Exemptions\" >Exemptions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Summary_of_Key_Provisions\" >Summary of Key Provisions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Important_Court_Decisions_About_The_RTI_Act\" >Important Court Decisions About The RTI Act<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Access_To_Exam_Answer_Sheets\" >Access To Exam Answer Sheets<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Privacy_And_RTI\" >Privacy And RTI<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Does_RTI_Apply_To_Cooperative_Societies\" >Does RTI Apply To Cooperative Societies?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Being_Open_About_Court_Decisions\" >Being Open About Court Decisions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#The_Right_To_Information_Act_2005_Really_Shook_Things_Up_In_Indias_Government\" >The Right To Information Act, 2005 Really Shook Things Up In India\u2019s Government<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Proactive_Disclosure_Under_Section_4\" >Proactive Disclosure Under Section 4<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Empowering_Citizens_Through_RTI\" >Empowering Citizens Through RTI<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Accountability_Of_Public_Officials\" >Accountability Of Public Officials<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#RTI_And_Democratic_Participation\" >RTI And Democratic Participation<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Challenges_And_Criticisms_Of_RTI\" >Challenges And Criticisms Of RTI<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Resistance_From_Public_Authorities\" >Resistance From Public Authorities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Backlog_Of_Appeals\" >Backlog Of Appeals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Misuse_Of_RTI\" >Misuse Of RTI<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Impact_Of_The_2019_Amendment\" >Impact Of The 2019 Amendment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Risks_Faced_By_RTI_Activists\" >Risks Faced By RTI Activists<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#The_Protection_Of_Free_Access_To_Information_By_Courts\" >The Protection Of Free Access To Information By Courts<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Key_Judicial_Developments\" >Key Judicial Developments<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Impact_Of_Judicial_Interpretation_On_RTI\" >Impact Of Judicial Interpretation On RTI<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Digital_Governance_And_The_Future_Of_Transparency\" >Digital Governance And The Future Of Transparency<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Opportunities_Created_By_Digital_Governance\" >Opportunities Created By Digital Governance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Challenges_In_Digital_Transparency\" >Challenges In Digital Transparency<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Future_Measures_To_Strengthen_Digital_RTI_Implementation\" >Future Measures To Strengthen Digital RTI Implementation<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/power-to-the-people-a-critical-analysis-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\/#Key_Measures_Required_To_Strengthen_The_RTI_Framework\" >Key Measures Required To Strengthen The RTI Framework<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p>Before the RTI Act, accessing government information in India was heavily restricted by colonial-era secrecy laws like the Official Secrets Act, 1923. The RTI Act changed this culture of secrecy by stating that information held by the government belongs to the people. It puts into practice the idea that democracy needs an informed citizenry. The Act requires public authorities to provide information within set timelines and establishes bodies like the Central Information Commission (CIC) and State Information Commissions to resolve disputes over access to information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its potential for change, the RTI Act has faced many challenges in how it is implemented, interpreted, and the capacity of institutions. Judicial decisions have significantly influenced the Act by defining what &#8220;information&#8221; means, balancing transparency with privacy concerns, and setting the limits of the law. This article examines the RTI Act, discussing its constitutional basis, key provisions, important judicial rulings, successes, and ongoing challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"constitutional-basis-of-the-right-to-know\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_the_Constitution_Supports_Our_Right_to_Know\"><\/span>How the Constitution Supports Our Right to Know<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The RTI Act became law in 2005, but the idea and the legal basis for the right to information were actually around much earlier than that. India&#8217;s Supreme Court slowly started seeing the right to know as a natural part of our basic right to speak freely, which is covered by Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"raj-narain-case\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Early_Recognition_Raj_Narain_Case_1975\"><\/span>Early Recognition: Raj Narain Case (1975)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A key early court decision that set this rule was State of Uttar Pradesh v. In the 1975 case of Raj Narain, (4 SCC 428), the Supreme Court ruled that people have a right to know what their government is doing. Justice Mathew once said something important: he believed that people in our country have a right to know about everything public officials do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This decision set the standard for how open a government should be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"judges-transfer-case\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Judges_Transfer_Case_1981\"><\/span>Judges&#8217; Transfer Case (1981)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>S was another important step forward.&#8221;P.&#8221; should be &#8220;P&#8221; Gupta versus This is about something called the Judges&#8217; Transfer Case, which you can find in legal records as Union of India, 1981 Supp SCC 87. The Court made it clear that keeping things open is now how democracy works. They said that transparency is the default, and if something needs to be kept secret, there has to be a good reason for it. The idea was that government information should usually be shared, unless there was a really good reason to keep it secret.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pucl-case-2003\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Peoples_Union_for_Civil_Liberties_Case_2003\"><\/span>People&#8217;s Union for Civil Liberties Case (2003)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, to make this even clearer, the Supreme Court said in People&#8217;s Union for Civil Liberties v. The Union of India case from 2003, specifically volume 4, page 399 of the Supreme Court Cases, confirmed that the right to information pretty much comes straight from our basic right to speak freely and express ourselves. The Court believed that for people to truly be involved in democracy, they need to know what decisions the government is making and what its policies are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, the RTI Act of 2005 basically puts into law what judges had already decided was part of our constitutional rights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"main-points-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Main_Points_of_the_2005_Right_to_Information_Act\"><\/span>Main Points of the 2005 Right to Information Act<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Right to Information Act, passed in 2005, is a really important law for India. It helps make things more open, holds people accountable, and lets citizens get more involved in how the country is run. This law sets up a full system that lets regular people get information from government offices. It wants to cut down on corruption, make the government work better, and give people more power by making how the government operates clearer and easier to get to. Here&#8217;s a detailed look at the main things this Act covers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"citizens-right-to-information\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Citizens_Right_to_Information\"><\/span>Citizens&#8217; Right to Information<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Citizens&#8217; Right to Information: Section 3 says that regular folks like you and me can ask for information that public organizations have. Basically, &#8220;information&#8221; means things like records, documents, emails, announcements, and contracts, no matter how they&#8217;re stored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"public-information-officers\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Public_Information_Officers\"><\/span>Public Information Officers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Public information officers: Section 5 says that every public organization needs to choose someone called a Public Information Officer (PIO). This person will handle getting and answering applications for information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"time-limit-for-providing-information\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Time_Limit_for_Providing_Information\"><\/span>Time Limit for Providing Information<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You need to give the information within 30 days of someone asking for it, as per Section 7. When someone&#8217;s life or freedom is at stake, you have to give them the information within 48 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"proactive-disclosure\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"On_Disclosure\"><\/span>On Disclosure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>On Disclosure: Section 4 says that public organizations have to share some kinds of information on their own, things like how they&#8217;re set up, how they make decisions, and where their money goes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"information-commissions-and-appeals\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ways_We_Get_Information\"><\/span>Ways We Get Information<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ways We Get Information: This law sets up groups like the Central Information Commission and State Information Commissions. Their job is to listen to people&#8217;s appeals and complaints if they can&#8217;t get the information they asked for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"exemptions-under-rti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Exemptions\"><\/span>Exemptions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Exemptions: There are some exceptions when information doesn&#8217;t need to be shared, like details about national security, business secrets, or people&#8217;s private lives. These are all mentioned in Section 8. Even with these exceptions, the main idea is that the bigger public good always comes first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"summary-of-key-provisions\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Summary_of_Key_Provisions\"><\/span>Summary of Key Provisions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Provision<\/th><th>Relevant Section<\/th><th>Description<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Citizens&#8217; Right to Information<\/td><td>Section 3<\/td><td>Citizens can request information from public authorities.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Appointment of Public Information Officers<\/td><td>Section 5<\/td><td>Every public authority must appoint a Public Information Officer (PIO).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Time Limit for Providing Information<\/td><td>Section 7<\/td><td>Information must be provided within 30 days, or within 48 hours if life or liberty is involved.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Proactive Disclosure<\/td><td>Section 4<\/td><td>Public authorities must voluntarily publish important information about their functioning.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Information Commissions<\/td><td>RTI Framework<\/td><td>Central and State Information Commissions handle appeals and complaints.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Exemptions<\/td><td>Section 8<\/td><td>Certain information such as national security or personal privacy may be exempt from disclosure.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"important-court-decisions-about-the-rti-act\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Court_Decisions_About_The_RTI_Act\"><\/span>Important Court Decisions About The RTI Act<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ever since the law came out, judges have really been key in figuring out what it means and how it works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"access-to-exam-answer-sheets\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Access_To_Exam_Answer_Sheets\"><\/span>Access To Exam Answer Sheets<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Supreme Court looked at a case about exam answer sheets. They needed to decide if students could see their marked papers after an exam. The court said that under the Right to Information Act, students should be able to see them. This means the answer sheets are considered public information. If a student wants to see their paper, they usually can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In CBSE v. Aditya Bandopadhyay, (2011) 8 SCC 497 case the Supreme Court decided that a student&#8217;s graded exam papers count as &#8220;information&#8221; under the RTI Act. The Court felt that when it comes to school grades, things need to be open and clear. It helps make sure schools are fair and held responsible. This decision really broadened RTI. It meant people could get their hands on documents that directly concerned them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"privacy-and-rti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Privacy_And_RTI\"><\/span>Privacy And RTI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>What privacy means for RTI:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the Girish Ramchandra Deshpande v. Central Information Commission, (2013) 1 SCC 212 case they talked about whether personal details of public servants should be shared. The Court decided that things like tax returns, disciplinary files, and personal employment issues usually don&#8217;t have to be shown to the public. They only make an exception if there&#8217;s a really good reason, like if it benefits a lot of people to know that information. This court decision showed that we need to find a good middle ground between being open and protecting people&#8217;s privacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"rti-and-cooperative-societies\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_RTI_Apply_To_Cooperative_Societies\"><\/span>Does RTI Apply To Cooperative Societies?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This question came up in the Thalappalam Service Cooperative Bank Ltd. v. State of Kerala, (2013) 16 SCC 82 I&#8217;ll take that as a cue to start writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Supreme Court explained what &#8220;public authority&#8221; means in State of Kerala, (2013) 16 SCC 82. The Court decided that cooperative societies only have to follow the RTI Act if the government gives them a lot of money or has a lot of control over them. This decision narrowed down what RTI covers, but it did make Section 2(h) of the Act clearer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"transparency-in-the-judiciary\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Being_Open_About_Court_Decisions\"><\/span>Being Open About Court Decisions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the case of Central Public Information Officer, Supreme Court of India against In 2020, the Supreme Court decided in the case of Central Public Information Officer, Supreme Court of India v. Subhash Chandra Agarwal, (2020) 5 SCC 481 that the Chief Justice of India&#8217;s office is considered a &#8220;public authority&#8221; under the RTI Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Court said again that being open about things helps judges be more accountable. But at the same time, they also stressed that judges need to be independent and have their privacy protected when it really matters. People generally saw this as a big step toward making sure the judicial system was open and clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"impact-of-the-right-to-information-act-2005\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Right_To_Information_Act_2005_Really_Shook_Things_Up_In_Indias_Government\"><\/span>The Right To Information Act, 2005 Really Shook Things Up In India\u2019s Government<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>People used to be shut out, decisions made behind closed doors, and money spent without anyone really knowing where it went. That\u2019s all changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before RTI, everything was kept under wraps thanks to secrecy laws and layers of paperwork. Folks mostly just heard rumours or got some carefully crafted official statement\u2014and that was it. Now, anyone can get straight answers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"proactive-disclosure-section4\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Proactive_Disclosure_Under_Section_4\"><\/span>Proactive Disclosure Under Section 4<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>RTI doesn\u2019t just talk about transparency\u2014it makes it real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Section 4 forces government offices to share important stuff:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Who works there<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What their budgets look like<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How they make decisions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t have to file an RTI application for every little thing anymore. These disclosures make life easier, and courts back it up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Supreme Court said way back in the 1970s, in the Raj Narain case, that people have a right to know what their government\u2019s up to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"empowering-citizens-through-rti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Empowering_Citizens_Through_RTI\"><\/span>Empowering Citizens Through RTI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This law hands people actual power. Villagers, activists, journalists\u2014they can all demand explanations from the government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No need to hope a whistleblower spills the beans or to jump to the worst conclusions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re curious about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>How a road was built<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Where the money for a local school ended up<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How development funds were used<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can just ask.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Entire communities use RTI to keep track of development funds and call out missing projects. It\u2019s shifting power from secret offices out into the open, one question at a time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"accountability-of-public-officials\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Accountability_Of_Public_Officials\"><\/span>Accountability Of Public Officials<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Officials aren\u2019t so complacent anymore, either. They know someone could check their records any day, which keeps them honest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If they try to ignore requests or stall, the Information Commissions can slap fines on them under Section 20.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Courts back this up too\u2014remember when students wanted their exam answer sheets and the Supreme Court told the boards, \u201chand them over\u201d? That settled it: transparency and accountability are not negotiable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"rti-and-democratic-participation\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"RTI_And_Democratic_Participation\"><\/span>RTI And Democratic Participation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>RTI isn\u2019t just about sneaking peeks behind the scenes\u2014it actually lets people step in and participate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With more information floating around, citizens jump into policy debates or take on watchdog roles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Landmark cases like S.P. Gupta prove democracy only works when government actions are out in the open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Journalists and NGOs dig up stories using RTI, exposing corruption and showing how decisions really get made.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sure, it\u2019s not flawless, but it\u2019s pushed public conversation up a level and given everyone more space to speak up. That\u2019s real progress for democracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"challenges-and-criticisms-of-rti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_And_Criticisms_Of_RTI\"><\/span>Challenges And Criticisms Of RTI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>RTI really shook things up, no doubt about it. But honestly, it\u2019s still a rough ride.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"resistance-from-public-authorities\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Resistance_From_Public_Authorities\"><\/span>Resistance From Public Authorities<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest headache? Public authorities just don\u2019t want to give up information. They drag their feet, come up with all kinds of excuses, even shut down requests without a word. If you\u2019re just trying to get some straight answers, it\u2019s maddening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"backlog-of-appeals\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Backlog_Of_Appeals\"><\/span>Backlog Of Appeals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Appeals? Just a mess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>People file them and end up waiting\u2014sometimes forever. The backlog\u2019s out of control. It slows the whole process and makes the RTI Act feel pretty worthless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"misuse-of-rti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Misuse_Of_RTI\"><\/span>Misuse Of RTI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>And then there\u2019s plain old misuse. Some people don\u2019t care about the public good. They use RTI just to annoy officials or dig into private stuff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"impact-of-2019-amendment\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_Of_The_2019_Amendment\"><\/span>Impact Of The 2019 Amendment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The 2019 amendment didn\u2019t help either. It handed the central government the power to decide how long Information Commissioners stay in their jobs and what they get paid. A lot of folks see this as the end of any real independence for the commission\u2014it\u2019s like they\u2019re expected to just toe the line now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"risks-faced-by-rti-activists\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Risks_Faced_By_RTI_Activists\"><\/span>Risks Faced By RTI Activists<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>And you can\u2019t ignore the risks. RTI activists who dig up corruption often get threatened or attacked. With zero protection, these whistleblowers are left completely on their own. Doesn\u2019t seem fair, does it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"protection-free-access-information-courts\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Protection_Of_Free_Access_To_Information_By_Courts\"><\/span>The Protection Of Free Access To Information By Courts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Recent actions of a number of courts are designed to enhance access to information. One of the recent rulings from the Telangana High Court was that individuals defined as being BPL have the right to receive free information, thereby furthering the pro-citizen objectives of the RTI Framework. Courts have also expanded the meaning of the term &#8220;public authority&#8221; in some cases, as it appears that the level of state funding provides more than enough evidence for continued accountability of entities carrying out &#8220;public functions&#8221; under the RTI framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"key-judicial-developments\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Judicial_Developments\"><\/span>Key Judicial Developments<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Recognition of the right of individuals classified as BPL to receive free information.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expansion of the definition of \u201cpublic authority\u201d by courts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Greater accountability for entities performing public functions under the RTI framework.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"judicial-impact-on-rti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_Of_Judicial_Interpretation_On_RTI\"><\/span>Impact Of Judicial Interpretation On RTI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Judicial Action<\/th><th>Impact On Transparency<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>Recognition of BPL citizens&#8217; rights<\/td><td>Ensures equitable access to information for economically weaker sections.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Expanded definition of &#8220;public authority&#8221;<\/td><td>Brings more publicly funded entities under RTI accountability.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Judicial reinforcement of public functions<\/td><td>Ensures organizations performing public duties remain transparent.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"digital-governance-future-transparency\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Digital_Governance_And_The_Future_Of_Transparency\"><\/span>Digital Governance And The Future Of Transparency<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The developing field of digital governance offers both prospects and obstacles to appropriately implementing the Right to Information Act of 2005. The digitisation of government records, e-government projects and online service delivery avenues raise opportunities for voluntarily releasing information out into the public domain. Section 4 of the Right to Information Act already requires public bodies to release certain pieces of information without a formal request, and if enough agencies are developing digital platforms, then there is an efficient means of fulfilling this requirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nevertheless, although technology has made rapid progression over the years some government agencies continue to lack current websites and\/or publicly available, easily identifiable records; consequently, citizens are forced to submit formal RTI requests for information that is properly available to them. In addition, a lack of standardised electronic record management systems across agencies leads to delays to citizens who make or receive RTI requests and incomplete replies from agencies responding to RTI requests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"opportunities-digital-governance\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Opportunities_Created_By_Digital_Governance\"><\/span>Opportunities Created By Digital Governance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Digitisation of government records.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expansion of e-government initiatives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Online service delivery mechanisms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proactive disclosure of information under Section 4 of the RTI Act.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"challenges-digital-transparency\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_In_Digital_Transparency\"><\/span>Challenges In Digital Transparency<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lack of updated government websites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Absence of publicly accessible and easily identifiable records.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Non-standardised electronic record management systems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Delays in responding to RTI applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incomplete responses from public authorities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"future-strengthening-rti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Future_Measures_To_Strengthen_Digital_RTI_Implementation\"><\/span>Future Measures To Strengthen Digital RTI Implementation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Measure<\/th><th>Expected Benefit<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>Strengthening digital infrastructure<\/td><td>Faster and easier access to government information.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Standardised data management protocols<\/td><td>Consistency in record keeping across agencies.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Expansion of online RTI portals<\/td><td>Reduced paperwork and administrative burden.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Strengthening digital infrastructure, creating standardised data management protocols and expanding the breadth of online RTI portals will greatly reduce the paperwork and administrative burden associated with RTI processes; as such, the future success of the RTI system rests with integrating digital governance principles with a strong digital governance framework to ensure that access to information will be made a simple and citizen-friendly exercise, not an exercise bound by process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, the Right to Information Act, 2005 is one of the greatest tools available to citizens of democracy. It has transformed the relationship between the government and its people by establishing accountability and openness in government through institutionalising accountability and transparency. As seen in the cases of State of U.P. v. Raj Narain and Subhash Chandra Agarwal v. Supreme Court of India, the judiciary has repeatedly reiterated that citizens\u2019 right to know is fundamental in a democracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ultimate success of the RTI Act is dependent not only on its legal provisions but also on its full implementation. Bureaucratic inertia, institutional limitations, and changes to the legal framework are significant barriers to achieving the full objectives of this Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"measures-strengthen-rti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Measures_Required_To_Strengthen_The_RTI_Framework\"><\/span>Key Measures Required To Strengthen The RTI Framework<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Strengthen Information Commissions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide adequate protection to RTI activists.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure proactive disclosure of information.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create a culture of transparency in all public institutions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To successfully empower all citizens of India, it is important to strengthen Information Commissions; provide adequate protection to RTI activists; ensure proactive disclosure of information; and create a culture of transparency in all public institutions. Only through these efforts can we hope to see real power transferred back to the public and strengthen the foundations of participatory democracy.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction The Right to Information Act, 2005 was a pivotal moment in India\u2019s democratic governance. Passed by the Parliament of India and fully implemented from 12 October 2005, this law provided a framework that allows citizens to access information held by public authorities. It promotes transparency and accountability in how the government operates. Before the<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1258,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_topic_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_reply_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"two_page_speed":[],"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[775,28],"class_list":{"0":"post-17109","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","6":"category-constitutional-law","7":"tag-constitutional-law","8":"tag-top-news"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17109","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1258"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17109"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17109\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17109"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17109"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17109"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}