Imphal: The Manipur Information Commission on Monday inaugurated the Right to Information (RTI) Week Celebrations, 2026, at the DIPR Auditorium in Nityaipat Chuthek, Imphal.
The seven-day event will conclude on October 12 and marks the 21st anniversary of the RTI Act, 2005.
Speaking at the event, R.K. Dinesh Singh called for greater public awareness and more RTI applications across the state. He also called for regular assessments of the number of applications and the implementation of RTI provisions to measure progress.
Singh urged public authorities to make proactive disclosures to reduce the workload of Public Information Officers (PIOs). He said greater awareness among applicants and officials could reduce disputes and strengthen democratic accountability.
He also said the RTI mechanism, despite being complex initially, has become more accessible and effective over the years.
In his welcome and keynote address, State Chief Information Commissioner Koijam Radhashyam Singh described the RTI Act as “sunshine legislation” that empowers citizens in a democratic republic.
He said the right to information is a fundamental right and referred to Section 4 of the Act, which requires public authorities to maintain and computerize records.
He also spoke about the principles of maximum disclosure and minimal exceptions and urged people to understand Sections 8, 9, 10 and 11 to help curb corruption and misuse of public resources.
The inaugural programme also featured specialised workshops led by Advocate Ch. Narendra Singh and Manipur Information Commission Joint Secretary G. Shantikumar Kabui.
State Information Commissioner Nungshitombi Athokpam, commission officials and staff from the Department of Personnel and Training also attended the event.