SHORT ANSWER:
The Right to Information Act, 2005 provides citizens the right to access information held by public authorities.
DETAILS:
- Citizens can request information from any public authority.
- Public authorities are required to respond within 30 days.
- Information must be provided in a transparent manner.
- Certain information may be exempt from disclosure for reasons of national security, privacy, etc.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- Failure to provide information can lead to penalties for the Public Information Officer (PIO).
- PIO can face a fine of up to ₹25,000 for not complying with the Act.
SOURCE:
- Right to Information Act, 2005
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