The Manipur Information Commission recently concluded its RTI Week Celebration 2026 with a closing function held at the auditorium of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations in Imphal, sponsored by the Department of Personnel and Training under India’s Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. Presided over by State Chief Information Commissioner Koijam Radhashyam Singh, the event featured prominent speakers, including former Chief Information Commissioner Th Ibobi Singh as chief guest, alongside guests of honour Oinam Sunil Singh and State Information Commissioner Nungshitombi Athokpam. Discussions centered on the vital role of the Right to Information (RTI) Act of 2005 in fostering transparency and administrative accountability, with leaders noting that the Manipur Information Commission—established in September 2006—has been instrumental in empowering citizens to access public records and scrutinize government operations. Speakers underscored the pressing need for more effective implementation across the region, drawing attention to prevailing operational hurdles and urging heightened protection for RTI activists who face risks while exposing irregularities. Public authorities were strongly encouraged to streamline information access and proactively publish departmental activities, funding details, staffing structures, and organizational metrics via official digital platforms. Citizens were similarly reminded to utilize the legislation responsibly for societal welfare and collective betterment rather than misconstruing its purpose, as Oinam Sunil clarified that the Act serves strictly as an informational instrument to secure documentary evidence rather than acting as a direct grievance redressal mechanism. The celebration also featured a prize distribution ceremony honoring winners of the RTI Quiz Competition, reinforcing grassroots awareness and public engagement with transparency frameworks.
Experts Stress Effective RTI Implementation and Activist Safety at Manipur Closing Function
