Maharashtra RTI rules amendments trigger criticism

The Maharashtra government has introduced amendments to the Right to Information (RTI) rules, including increased application fees and mandatory photo ID requirements. Activists, including Anna Hazare, have criticized the changes, arguing they create barriers for citizens and threaten the safety of whistleblowers.
Why it matters
These changes impact government transparency and the ability of citizens to hold public officials accountable, sparking a significant civil rights debate in India.
This month, the Maharashtra government issued a notification amending certain provisions of the Maharashtra Right to Information Rules, 2026. The amendments, which are scheduled to come into effect on July 5, have drawn criticism from social activists. Veteran activist Anna Hazare has threatened to go on an indefinite hunger strike from July 5 if the government does not withdraw the amendments.
The article explains the government's changes while providing space for the concerns raised by activists.
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