In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has directed all state information commissions (SICs) to adopt a hybrid mode of hearing, combining both physical and virtual platforms, for resolving complaints and appeals filed under the Right to Information Act (RTI). This directive comes in response to a plea seeking improved functionality of SICs and underscores the importance of technology in enhancing access to justice.
A bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud emphasized that providing the option of virtual hearings to individuals seeking information under the RTI Act of 2005 is essential for expanding access to forums for addressing grievances. The court highlighted that access to justice is a fundamental right, and the right to information is integral to the right to freedom of expression.
The Supreme Court's directive follows its earlier decision to set a two-week deadline for high courts to establish a hybrid mode for hearing cases. Now, it has extended this requirement to SICs across the country.
The court's ruling not only promotes efficiency but also aligns with the digital transformation of legal proceedings. It mandates all state information commissions to offer litigants the choice of availing a hybrid mode of hearing, blending in-person and virtual options seamlessly.
The bench has instructed additional solicitor general K M Nataraj to facilitate a meeting between the secretary of the Department of Personnel and Training, the Central Information Commission, and all state information commissions. This meeting aims to coordinate the implementation of the court's order, which includes setting up electronic platforms within SICs to support the hybrid mode of hearing.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court has called upon state governments to cooperate closely with their respective information commissions in establishing the necessary infrastructure to accommodate these changes. The move toward a hybrid mode of hearing is expected to significantly enhance access to justice and streamline the resolution of complaints and appeals related to the Right to Information Act.
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