Coimbatore Corporation Faces Criticism Over Delayed RTI Responses and Alleged Fund Misuse

Coimbatore Corporation RTI Delays Spark Transparency Concerns: Activists Demand Accountability and Reform

Coimbatore, October 2024 – Right to Information (RTI) activists in Coimbatore have raised serious concerns about delayed responses from the Coimbatore Corporation, calling for improved transparency and accountability. With claims of fund misuse, including a surprising ₹27.52 lakh spent on tea and coffee during firefighting efforts, activists are demanding action.

Lack of Response to RTI Queries Raises Questions on Transparency

Prominent RTI activist S.P. Thiyagarajan has been waiting for three years for a response regarding the appointment of officials within Coimbatore Corporation, which he alleges may involve corrupt practices. His concerns highlight an ongoing problem: a lack of transparency and accountability in the civic body’s operations. “It’s frustrating to witness this level of inaction and lack of accountability,” said Thiyagarajan, urging for swift action to address the delays.

Allegations of Misuse in Fire Control Efforts

In April 2024, Coimbatore Corporation allocated ₹76 lakh over 80 days to control a large fire at the Vellalore dump yard. While the scale of the response seemed appropriate, a portion of the funds—₹27.52 lakh—was reportedly spent on tea and coffee for firefighters over just 12 days. This figure has raised eyebrows and sparked allegations of potential fund misuse. Thiyagarajan emphasized the need for transparency: “If the Corporation has the bills to justify these expenses, they should disclose them immediately.”

RTI Act Awareness and Enforcement Urged by Activists

Another RTI activist, N.R. Ravishankar, pointed to awareness gaps in the RTI Act among Coimbatore Corporation officials, many of whom are unsure of their responsibilities in responding to requests. He noted that Section 20(1) of the RTI Act authorizes the Central or State Information Commission to impose penalties of ₹250 per day on Public Information Officers (PIOs) who delay or deny information, with a maximum penalty of ₹25,000 deducted from the PIO’s salary. “This penalty process is rarely enforced, which is why delays continue,” Ravishankar commented, highlighting the lack of repercussions.

After filing a complaint with the Chief Information Commissioner, Ravishankar received responses to his outstanding RTI requests but emphasized that the penalty process must be enforced more effectively to ensure timely replies in the future.

Calls for Digital RTI Filing to Streamline Process

To further enhance accessibility, activists are advocating for an online RTI filing system in Coimbatore, which would allow for quicker submissions and improved tracking of requests. Digital filing would also create a more robust system for documentation, ensuring that RTI applications don’t go unanswered or untracked.

“Introducing an online RTI facility would empower citizens to access information with ease, making Coimbatore Corporation more accountable and transparent,” noted Ravishankar, calling on local government to prioritize this development.

What’s Next for Coimbatore Corporation’s RTI Process?

For citizens of Coimbatore and transparency advocates, the delays and lack of accountability around RTI responses highlight a crucial issue in government transparency and responsiveness. Activists are pressing for consistent, timely responses and advocating for stricter enforcement of penalties for delays. The call for an online RTI platform could streamline the process, making it easier for citizens to file, track, and receive information essential for public accountability.

As RTI concerns gain attention, citizens and activists continue to push for reforms in Coimbatore’s governance practices, hoping to see real changes in the handling of public information requests.