The Karnataka Information Commission has disposed of nearly 40,000 second appeal cases over the past year, setting a national record, said State Information Commissioner Prakash Narayan Channal of the Belagavi Bench.
In an official statement, he noted that the volume of applications received at the Belagavi Bench is among the highest in the state. “We have planned to dispose of around 6,000 to 7,000 cases annually, with district-wise hearings being organized to improve efficiency,” he said.
Channal further explained that the Belagavi Bench conducts hearings for approximately 40 to 60 applications through both offline and online modes. Special emphasis is being placed on petitions from rural areas. Many cases related to basic civic issues such as drinking water, roads, electricity supply, sanitation, and healthcare are being addressed and resolved.
He also highlighted that strict action is being taken against officials who fail to provide information. Based on the recommendations of the inquiry committee, penalties are imposed and compensation is awarded to applicants where necessary.
“The Right to Information Act is a people-centric law and a strong pillar of democracy. It came into force on October 12, 2005. Karnataka holds the distinction of being the first state to effectively implement this Act,” he added.
