Speakers for creating awareness about RTI Act

Describing RTI Act as the people's law, speakers at the country's first-ever RTI Camp  stressed Saturday the need for highlighting the benefits of the law to ensure its optimum use by the citizens, reports UNB.

MRDI and Jagroto Nagorik Committee (JANAK) jointly organised the camp with the support of Manusher Jonno Foundation to promote citizens' awareness about RTI that will help ensure their access to information.

It was held at Shaheed Moshiur Rahman High school at Singhajhuli union of Chowgachha Upazila in Jessore.

Chief Information Commissioner of Information Commission Bangladesh Mohammed Farooq was present as the chief guest at the function with Deputy Commissioner of Jessore Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir in the chair.

Information Commissioner of Information Commission Bangladesh Nepal Chandra Sarker and Secretary (Coordination and Reforms) Md. Nazrul Islam attended as special guests.

Mohammed Farooq said by utilising RTI Act citizens can get empowered and establish their ownership to the state.

Nepal Chandra Sarker said implementation and benefits of RTI Act depend on the extent of use of the law by the people. They will use it frequently if they are aware about the law and its benefits, he said.

"We have taken different steps, but effective implementation of the law depends upon the people. Transparency and accountability of the government and non-government organisations will be ensured if people seek information," Nazrul Islam said.

Representatives from district and upazila administration, CSOs, journalists, teachers, students and about 1500 people from all walks of life were present.