Kharge’s Accusations Against the Government
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the Narendra Modi-led government of weakening the Right to Information (RTI) Act. His statements came shortly after the Economic Survey suggested a re-evaluation of the nearly two-decade-old transparency law, raising concerns about public accountability.
The Economic Survey, released in Parliament, proposed that parts of the RTI Act might need modifications, including the potential introduction of a “ministerial veto” to exempt certain disclosures. Kharge interpreted these suggestions as an attempt to dilute the principles of transparency and accountability in governance.
The Current State of RTI
Kharge highlighted several issues afflicting the RTI framework under the BJP government since coming to power in 2014. He cited the backlog of over 26,000 pending RTI cases as of 2025, indicating a significant slowdown in the process of accessing public information. This situation, he argued, has resulted in a decline in the law’s efficacy.
Additionally, Kharge pointed out the amendments made to the RTI Act in 2019, which have allowed the Centre to control the appointments and salaries of Information Commissioners. He claimed these changes undermine their independence, fundamentally altering how the RTI system operates.
Data Protection and RTI Act
In his criticism, Kharge referenced the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, which he believes has further compromised the RTI Act’s public interest clause. He accused the government of using privacy concerns as a means to restrict access to information, mentioning that this tactic was diluting the law’s effectiveness in promoting justice and transparency.
“The RTI Act, which should be a tool for public empowerment, is being turned into a weapon of secrecy under the guise of protecting privacy,” Kharge stated, emphasizing the need to preserve the integrity of the RTI Act in light of these legislative changes.
Vacancies and Institutional Weaknesses
The Role of the Central Information Commission
Kharge expressed serious concerns regarding the operational hurdles faced by the Central Information Commission (CIC). He pointed out that the position of Chief Information Commissioner was vacant until December 2025, marking the seventh vacancy in the role over the past 11 years. This lapse, he argued, indicates a deliberate attempt to weaken the transparency framework and deprive citizens of their right to information.
The Congress president stated, “The government’s neglect in filling these positions is not just a bureaucratic failure; it is a part of a broader agenda to undermine RTI. Without proper leadership, the Commission cannot function effectively, and public trust erodes.”
Concerns for Activists’ Safety
Alongside the erosion of institutional strength, Kharge raised alarm over the safety of transparency activists. He cited alarming statistics indicating that more than 100 RTI activists had lost their lives since the Modi government took office. This issue underscores the risks faced by those advocating for transparency and accountability.
He further criticized the government’s failure to enforce the Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014, which was enacted during the Congress-led UPA regime, highlighting that this law was intended to shield those exposing corruption from threats and retaliation.
Potential Future of RTI
In a pointed question, Kharge speculated whether the RTI Act was destined to meet the same fate as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which he claims has already been systematically weakened. He asked rhetorically, “After killing MGNREGA, is it RTI’s turn to get murdered?” This query aimed to awaken public consciousness about the importance of safeguarding accountability mechanisms within the government.
In light of the Economic Survey’s call for a re-examination of the RTI Act, Kharge urged citizens and lawmakers to resist any attempts to further dilute the law. He emphasized, “Transparency is the cornerstone of democracy, and we must not allow it to be undermined under any pretext.”
The Broader Context of the Economic Survey
The Economic Survey of 2025-26 underscored structural flaws in various welfare schemes, including MGNREGS, advocating for their reassessment. The document’s recommendations for the RTI Act echoed this sentiment, suggesting a broader narrative of reevaluating past policies aimed at promoting transparency and accountability.
According to analysts, the discussion surrounding the RTI Act within the context of the Economic Survey reflects an ongoing struggle over governmental transparency. Legal experts warned that any modifications that could impede public access to information might lead to greater distrust in governmental institutions.
Political Reactions and Implications
The issues raised by Kharge resonate strongly within Indian political discourse. The Congress party has consistently highlighted these concerns about the RTI Act, positioning itself as a defender of transparency and accountability in stark contrast to the current government’s actions.
Opposition parties, including the Congress, are expected to leverage this situation in upcoming elections, emphasizing the need for safeguarding democratic institutions and principles. Political analysts suggest that public sentiment regarding transparency could play a crucial role in shaping electoral outcomes.
The Way Forward
As the government prepares to consider the recommendations made in the Economic Survey, civil society organizations and activists are mobilizing to ensure that citizens’ rights to information remain protected. Advocacy groups are calling for a public discourse on the future of the RTI Act to highlight its significance in promoting democratic values.
Kharge’s allegations and the discourse surrounding them are expected to carry weight in legislative discussions and may influence proposed changes as stakeholders debate the next steps for transparency laws in India.