Role of the right to information (RTI) in promoting democratic accountability: A two-decade review

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, enacted in India in 2005, marked a significant milestone in strengthening democratic governance by legally empowering citizens to seek transparency and hold public institutions accountable. Over the past two decades, the RTI framework has played a pivotal role in enhancing citizen participation, reducing corruption, and fostering transparency in administrative processes. This study undertakes a comprehensive review of the RTI Act’s evolution, implementation, achievements, and limitations across various sectors of governance. Drawing on legislative documents, judicial interpretations, empirical studies, and civil society reports, it critically analyzes the impact of RTI on democratic accountability in India. The research highlights both the successes—such as increased public awareness and systemic corrections—and the challenges, including bureaucratic resistance, backlog in appeals, digital divides, and institutional weakening following legislative amendments. The study concludes with evidence-based recommendations to strengthen the RTI framework and reinforce the culture of transparency in India’s democratic institutions.