Veteran social activist and Right to Information (RTI) movement pioneer Anna Hazare has warned the Maharashtra government that he will begin an indefinite hunger strike at Ralegan Siddhi from July 5 if controversial provisions in the Maharashtra Right to Information Rules, 2026, are not withdrawn.
The warning comes after representatives of the Sajag Nagrik Manch met Hazare at Ralegan Siddhi and submitted a memorandum highlighting concerns over the new RTI regulations. The group alleged that several provisions could restrict citizens' ability to access information under the RTI Act.
Following the meeting, Hazare reportedly wrote to the Chief Minister, urging the government to reconsider the rules and protect citizens' right to information.
Concerns Over Increased Fees
Activists have objected to a significant increase in RTI-related charges under the new rules. Key changes include:
RTI application fees increased from INR 10 to INR 30, a 200 percent rise.
Charges for photocopies and digital copies of information increased from INR 2 to INR 5 per page, a 150 percent increase.
A fee of INR 50 for first appeals and INR 100 for second appeals has been introduced.
Previously, the appeal process was free of cost.
Word Limit and Single-Subject Restriction
The new rules impose a 150-word limit on RTI applications and require applicants to seek information on only one subject per application.
Transparency advocates argue that these restrictions could make the process more complicated and create additional hurdles for citizens seeking information from public authorities.
Mandatory Identity Proof
Another contentious provision requires applicants to submit a self-attested photo identity card as proof of Indian citizenship. Under the rules, Public Information Officers (PIOs) may reject applications that do not include the required documentation.
Hazare Questions Government's Approach
In his communication to the government, Hazare criticised the increased financial burden on citizens and questioned why additional restrictions were being imposed on applicants while no corresponding accountability measures had been introduced for officials who fail to comply with RTI provisions.
He also raised concerns over a rule allowing appellate authorities to dismiss or dispose of second appeals if the applicant is absent during the hearing.
According to Hazare, quasi-judicial bodies should decide cases on their merits rather than rejecting them solely on procedural grounds.
Activists Warn Against Weakening Transparency
In its memorandum, Sajag Nagrik Manch noted Maharashtra's historic role in the RTI movement and argued that introducing rules perceived as limiting transparency could set a negative precedent for the rest of the country.
Although the state government has already withdrawn an earlier provision that would have required applicants to state reasons for seeking information, several other disputed rules remain in force.
The controversy has intensified the debate between the Maharashtra government and transparency advocates, with activists demanding a review of the new RTI framework and warning that the changes could undermine citizens' access to information.