Kochi Corporation's RTI restrictions draw fire from transparency advocates

Kochi Corporation has moved to restrict citizens who file multiple Right to Information (RTI) applications, drawing criticism from transparency advocates. The action has been challenged as contrary to the spirit of the RTI Act, which contains no limit on the number of applications an individual can submit.

Supreme Court lawyer Kaleeswaram Raj opposed the corporation's initiative, stating it violates the foundational principles of the transparency law. The RTI Act does not prescribe any ceiling on applications, a key feature designed to ensure public access to government information without arbitrary barriers.

The restriction has triggered broader concerns about the misuse of administrative powers to discourage legitimate public scrutiny. Observers warn that such moves, if allowed, could set a problematic precedent for other local bodies across India.