Introduction

In the case of Harishchandra’s RTI, the pressing question arises whether commissioner Mirzapur division Vidhyachal is indeed a layman who cannot grasp the essential nuances and provisions of the Right to Information Act 2005.
Furthermore, it is imperative to note that she, Preeti Shukla, has clearly violated subsection 1 of section 7 of the Right to Information Act 2005, thus undermining the integrity of the very law she is tasked with upholding.
Her actions demonstrate a troubling disregard for the principles of transparency and accountability that are fundamental to any democratic institution.
Undoubtedly, officers like her are directly accountable for the anarchy in our government machinery, contributing not only to inefficiency but also to widespread public disillusionment with the system.
This scenario illuminates a broader issue within our administrative bodies, where a lack of understanding and commitment to established laws can lead to significant injustices for the citizens they are meant to serve.

Details of Public Authority :- DISTRICT MAGISTRATE OFFICE MIRZAPUR. Specifically, it is associated with the registration number :- DMOMR/R/2021/80003 respectively. Furthermore, it is important to note that additional details will be available by viewing the status of the above-mentioned new request registration number.

District Magistrate Mirzapur Forwarded the RTI application Of Harishchandra to subdivisional magistrates Sadar who did not entertain RTI application.

Case Overview: Harishchandra’s RTI and Appeal

Harishchandra filed an initial RTI application with the Commissioner’s Office, seeking clarity on several issues that had been troubling him for an extended period. After a thorough review, the office transferred the application to the relevant departments for a more in-depth investigation and subsequently provided an answer, which, however, did not fully address all of his concerns.
This incomplete response prompted Harishchandra to file a first appeal, as he believed that transparency and accountability were crucial in ensuring that citizens received proper information regarding governmental processes. With this appeal, he aimed to shed more light on the matter, demonstrating his determination to pursue justice and hold the authorities responsible for their actions.

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1. Original RTI Application

• Registration Number: COMZP/R/2020/60003 Additionally, this number is crucial for identifying and tracking the associated records effectively.
• Applicant Name: Harishchandra
• Date of Filing: 11/06/2020
• Public Authority: Commissioner Office, Mirzapur

Status

Another public authority transferred the request on 04/01/2021.

• Transferred To: District Magistrate Office, Mirzapur
• New Registration Number: DMOMR/R/2021/80003

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2. Transferred Harishchandra’s RTI Application

• Registration Number: DMOMR/R/2021/80003
• Applicant Name: Harishchandra
• Date of Filing: 04/01/2021
• Public Authority: District Magistrate Office, Mirzapur

Information Sought

The Harishchandra’s RTI requested information regarding a complaint (40019918024952) filed on the Jansunwai Portal.
Specifically, he asked for detailed information concerning the status of his complaint, the actions taken by the concerned authorities, and any related documents that could shed light on the resolution process.
Additionally, he sought clarification on the timelines stipulated for addressing such complaints and the provisions available for appealing the outcomes if he found them unsatisfactory.
This information is crucial for understanding the accountability mechanisms in place and ensuring that public grievances are handled transparently and efficiently.

1. Consequently, the reason for the 1 year, 1 month, and 26-day delay in redressing feedback.
2. Minutes of the proceedings during this period.
3. Furthermore, the names, designations, and posting dates of the staff involved in processing the complaint are crucial for transparency.

Applicant’s Personal Details

The description of the applicant in Harishchandra’s RTI illustrates the complexities and intricacies faced by individuals when navigating through the process of filing Right to Information applications.
It highlights not only the personal stakes involved but also the systemic hurdles that can impede the pursuit of transparency and accountability.
Harishchandra, as the applicant, embodies the spirit of citizen engagement in democratic processes, showcasing how a singular voice can challenge established norms and demand rightful access to information.
This case is not just an isolated incident; rather, it serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges many face in their quest for information, reflecting broader societal issues related to governance, public access to data, and the importance of fostering a culture of openness in institutions.
The repercussions of such applications extend beyond the individual, impacting the community’s trust in government systems and the fundamental principles of democracy.

• Name: Harishchandra, notably renowned for his unwavering commitment to truth and justice, ultimately became a symbol of integrity in Indian mythology.
• Address: Village Adampur, Post Nibee Gaharwar, Block Chhanvey, Pincode: 231303, Uttar Pradesh
• Mobile Number: +91-7054703028
• Email: preetisinghgaharwar[at]gmail[dot]com
• Below Poverty Line (BPL): Yes

Status

The authorities disposed of the request on 31/05/2021; consequently, the matter was resolved promptly.

• Reply: akhya upload (Document attached)

Officer Details

• PIO Name: Hemant Kumar (Tehsildar)
• PIO Phone: 9454416823
• PIO Email: teh-sadar.mi@up.gov.in
• Nodal Officer Name: Shiv Pratap Shukla
• Nodal Officer Email: adm.fr.mi-up@gov.in

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3. First Appeal Application

• Registration Number: COMZP/A/2020/60005, therefore it is essential for tracking purposes.
• Applicant Name: Harishchandra
• Date of Filing: 15/12/2020
• Public Authority: Commissioner Office, Mirzapur

Grounds for Appeal in Harishchandra’s RTI

Obviously, no response was received within the stipulated time limit for the original RTI (COMZP/R/2020/60003), which has subsequently raised significant concerns regarding the adherence to established protocols that are vital for the integrity of the information request process.
This lack of response not only undermines the commitment to transparency but also raises questions about the efficiency of the system in place.
Therefore, it is crucial to address these issues promptly to ensure compliance and maintain trust in the process, as failing to rectify this situation may lead to a decrease in public confidence and could discourage individuals from utilizing their rights to seek information in the future.
Timely action in resolving these matters will play a pivotal role in reinforcing the accountability of the authorities involved and in restoring the faith of the citizenry in these critical processes.

Prayer or Relief Sought

The applicant, therefore, questioned the Commissioner’s understanding of the RTI Act 2005 and subsequently alleged a violation of Section 7(1) by Preeti Shukla. This allegation was serious, as it implied a deliberate oversight or ignorance of the provisions outlined in the Act, which are designed to ensure transparency and accountability in public administration.
The applicant argued that such actions not only undermine the rights of citizens to seek information but also contribute to a larger culture of impunity among officials, holding such officers accountable for “anarchy in government machinery.
This concern highlighted the broader implications of ineffective governance, where citizens are left to grapple with bureaucratic inertia and a lack of responsiveness from public servants.

Status

They /staff of public authority returned the First Appeal Application on 11/12/2024; consequently, this is a mockery of the provisions of the right to information act 2005.

• Remarks: Consequently, the concerned Divisional Commissioner (Commissioner Vindhyachal Division) office advised the applicant to file the appeal.

Officer Details in Harishchandra’s RTI

• First Appellate Authority (FAA) / Nodal Officer Name: Thus, DR VISHRAM
• FAA / Nodal Officer Email: commmir@up.nic.in

Mockery of RTI Act, no information provided to Harishchand of oppressed section but grievance was closed by the S.D.M. Sadar

Because of rampant corruption in Tahsil Sadar not a single point information was provided by them which shows mockery of RTI