1. The RTI’s Shift to a ‘Right to Deny Information’
- Context: An editorial analyzes how recent legislative changes, particularly the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, have weakened the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The editorial argues that the new law’s broad definition of “personal information” can be used by government agencies to deny information, thereby undermining public accountability and transparency. This is a critical issue that threatens the very foundation of democratic governance.
- Key Issues:
- The DPDP Act provides a blanket exemption for “personal information,” making it a convenient tool for PIOs to deny information.
- This effectively turns the RTI Act from a “right to information” to a “right to deny information.”
- The law lacks a clear and robust public interest override, which is a common feature in data protection laws around the world.
- This new legal framework can be used to hide details about a wide range of issues, from public servant assets to government contracts, thus fostering a culture of opacity and corruption.
- Way Forward:
- Judicial Review: The Supreme Court should review the interplay between the two laws and provide a clear framework for balancing the right to privacy with the public’s right to information.
- Legislative Amendment: The DPDP Act should be amended to include a clear public interest override clause.
- Public Awareness: Civil society and the media must raise awareness about the implications of these changes and advocate for a stronger transparency regime.
- Conclusion: While data protection is a valid concern, it cannot be used as a pretext to undermine the public’s right to know. The RTI Act is a vital tool for holding the government accountable, and any attempt to dilute it must be resisted.
2. Generational Rage: On the Upheaval in Nepal
- Context: This editorial discusses the political turmoil in Nepal, where protests led by a new generation of political activists have brought down the government and led to the appointment of a new prime minister. The editorial highlights the generational rage against traditional political leaders and their failure to deliver good governance and development.
- Key Issues:
- The protests are a result of widespread disillusionment with Nepal’s political establishment, which is seen as corrupt and ineffective.
- The new generation of activists is demanding an end to political impunity and a more accountable system of governance.
- The violence and government crackdown that followed the protests threaten to undermine Nepal’s fragile democratic institutions.
- The appointment of a new Prime Minister, who is a former Chief Justice, is a sign of a new beginning, but the challenges of political instability and corruption remain.
- Way Forward:
- Political Reform: Nepal’s political parties must reform and engage with the demands of the youth for a more accountable and transparent system of governance.
- Judicial Independence: The judiciary must remain independent and impartial to ensure that justice is served and the rule of law is upheld.
- International Support: The international community should provide support to Nepal’s democratic institutions and encourage a peaceful and inclusive political process.
- Conclusion: The protests in Nepal are a powerful expression of generational rage against a failed political system. The new leadership has a monumental task of restoring trust in democracy and delivering on the promises of good governance and development
