03/07/2026
OPEN LETTER TO THE HON'BLE CHIEF MINISTER OF MAHARASHTRA
Thank You for Protecting the Spirit of the Right to Information Act
Respected Hon'ble Chief Minister,
On behalf of Mahiti Seva Samiti (MASS INDIA), and thousands of citizens who believe in transparent and accountable governance, I express our heartfelt appreciation for your decision to stay the implementation of the Maharashtra Right to Information Rules (Amendment), 2026.
Your decision has reinforced the confidence of citizens that the Government of Maharashtra remains committed to the constitutional values of transparency, accountability, and participatory democracy.
The Right to Information Act, 2005 is not merely a procedural law. It is a transformative social welfare legislation that empowers ordinary citizens to question public authorities, expose corruption, improve governance, and ensure accountability in public administration. It has become one of the most effective instruments for protecting democratic values in India.
The proposed amendments to the Maharashtra RTI Rules, particularly the substantial increase in fees, had caused widespread concern among RTI users, social activists, journalists, advocates, students, and senior citizens. Many believed that higher fees could discourage economically weaker sections from exercising their right to seek information from public authorities.
By staying the implementation of the amended Rules, your Government has demonstrated sensitivity to public opinion and respect for democratic dialogue. This decision has been welcomed across Maharashtra by citizens who value openness in government.
We respectfully request that, before any further decision is taken, the Government initiate a transparent consultation process with RTI activists, legal experts, civil society organisations, journalists, academicians, and other stakeholders. Such a participatory approach will help ensure that any future amendments strengthen the implementation of the RTI Act without creating unnecessary barriers for information seekers.
A transparent government earns the trust of its people. An accessible RTI mechanism strengthens democracy, improves public administration, and promotes good governance.
We sincerely hope that the Government will continue to uphold the objectives and spirit of the Right to Information Act, 2005, by ensuring that the exercise of this important statutory right remains simple, affordable, and accessible to every citizen.
Once again, we convey our sincere appreciation for your timely intervention in the larger public interest.
With highest regards,
Adv. Suresh N. Menchirel
President, Mahiti Seva Samiti (MASS INDIA)
Advocate, Bombay High Court
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra
"Transparency strengthens democracy. Accountability builds public trust."