Right to Information

Introduction

The right to information refers to the established right of citizens to request and obtain information of public importance or concern. Except for information deemed necessary to be kept confidential by law, all citizens have the right to access public information. This right is recognized as a fundamental right in the constitutions of democratic countries. In Nepal, the right to information is enshrined as a fundamental right under Article 27 of the Constitution.

Provisions Related to the Right to Information in Nepal’s Constitution

Article 27 of Nepal’s Constitution provides for the right to information, stating:

“Every citizen shall have the right to seek or obtain information on any matter of personal or public concern. However, no one shall be compelled to provide information that is required to be kept confidential by law.”

Status of Implementation of the Right to Information

• The Right to Information Act, 2007, has been formulated and implemented.
• An Information Commission has been established and is operational (with provisions for a Chief Information Commissioner and two other commissioners).
• Important government decisions are published in the Nepal Gazette.
• Arrangements for information officers have been made.
• Ministries have appointed spokespersons.
• Decisions and activities are publicized through public media such as Gorkhapatra, Radio Nepal, and Nepal Television.
• Progress reports on government activities are made public through:
  • Public notices.
  • Websites.
  • Press conferences.
• Details of expenditures are made public.

From these various aspects, it can be observed that the constitutional provisions for the right to information have been implemented to some extent.

Conclusion

The people are the ultimate holders of sovereign power. It is the right of the people to be informed about the actions and decisions of their elected representatives and the public administration machinery, and it is the duty of public officials to provide such information. Information initiates the process of holding public institutions accountable and is the backbone of democracy. In Nepal, the right to information is constitutionally protected, and legal and structural arrangements have been strengthened. Raising awareness about the right to information and its critical importance in democracy is the need of the hour.