Q.16. “Right to Information Act has forced civil servants to come out of steel frame and serve people sincerely.” Explain.

The Right to Information Act (RTI), enacted in 2005, has indeed been a transformative piece of legislation in India, compelling civil servants to operate with greater transparency and accountability. Here’s how it has impacted the bureaucracy:

• Transparency: The RTI Act has made government operations more transparent. Civil servants are now obliged to provide information requested by citizens unless it falls under certain exemptions. This openness has reduced the opaqueness that once characterized the bureaucracy.

• Accountability: With the possibility of any action being scrutinized under RTI, civil servants are more cautious and responsible in their decision-making processes. The fear of exposure has led to a reduction in arbitrary and corrupt practices.

• Citizen-Centric Service: The Act has made the administration more responsive to the needs of the citizens. Civil servants are aware that their actions and decisions can be questioned, leading to a more citizen-centric approach in service delivery.

• Empowerment of Citizens: By empowering citizens with the right to question the authorities and seek information, the RTI Act has made civil servants more answerable to the public they serve.

• Cultural Shift: There has been a cultural shift within the civil services towards more openness and service orientation, moving away from the ‘steel frame’ mindset of secrecy and hierarchy.

In conclusion, the RTI Act has been instrumental in making civil servants come out of the ‘steel frame’ and serve the people with sincerity, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability in public service.