Research Proposal Submitted By: APEKSHA, 1012, BBA LLB, CNLU,

PATNA
Topic: RIGHT TO INFORMATION
Introduction:
Right to Information is the bulwark of democratic government. This right is essential for the
proper functioning of the democratic process. Right to Information is an integral part of the
freedom of speech and expression enshrined in Article 19(1)(A) of the constitution, which is
regarded as the first condition of liberty. It occupies preferred position in the hierarchy of
liberties giving succour and protection to other liberties. The expression "freedom of speech
and expression" in Article 19(1)(a) has been held to include the right to acquire information
and disseminate the same. It includes the right to communicate it through any available media
whether print or electronic or audio-visual, such as, advertisement, movie, article or speech,
etc. This freedom includes the freedom to communicate or circulate ones opinion without
interference to as large a population in the country, as well as abroad, as is possible to reach.
Communication and receipt of information are the two sides of the same coin. An important
aspect of freedom of speech and expression is considered the freedom to receive and
disseminate information without any hindrance. Without adequate information, a person
cannot form an informed opinion.

The aim of the researcher is to outline firstly the significance of the right to information,
particularly in empowering ordinary citizens to combat state corruption as well as to highlight
some lacuna in the Right to Information Act. The aim is to focus over the efforts at the
national level to legislate this right. The researcher has tried to focus over the implication of
Right to Information Act over the Higher Judiciary in the light of latest controversy in the
case of The Central Public Information Officer, Supreme Court of India v. Subhash. Whether
the RTIA is meeting expectations about its revolutionary potential? This is a question that is
relevant not only in India, but in many other countries in similar circumstances, which have
either adopted or are considering the adoption of FOIA-style legislation. The aim of this
research project to is synthesize the main findings of these recent Indian studies.

The Constitution of India does not explicitly grant a right to information. However, the
Supreme Court of India (the country's highest court) has held in several cases that the right to
information is implicit in the constitutionally enshrined rights to freedom of speech and
expression (Article 19 (1)(a) and right to life and liberty (Article 21).

The first Supreme Court ruling on the right to information dates back to 1975. However, no
attempt was made by either the Central or the State Governments to implement a simple and
effective access to information regime until after the launching of campaigns for freedom of
information by civil society. (Notably, effective right to information legislation is important
even where a constitutional right exists because it ensures that people do not have to go to
court every time they want to exercise the right, and puts in place simple, clear and regular
procedures which can be easily utilised by all.

The only way to secure substantial right to information available to the citizens of India is to
implement the Right to Information Act, 2005 strictly according to the provisions of law. It is
essential that the Higher Judiciary should realize its responsibility and should be covered
within the scope of the RTI Act. Higher the authority, higher should be the accountability to
the people of India.
Research Methodology:
The research has been done through the doctrinal method. Internet and sources like books
have been used. Also, articles and newspaper write ups have been used for the research.

CHAPTERISATION:
CHAPTER 1: Introduction to The Right to Information.
CHAPTER 2: Right to Information as a tool to combat corruption.
CHAPTER 3: Constitutional development of Right to Information
CHAPTER 4: Issues in implementation of the Act with relevant case laws.
CHAPTER 5: Conclusion and suggestions