J&K Online RTI Portal Launched: But need to make it mobile-friendly.

After years of anticipation, the Jammu & Kashmir government has finally launched the J&K Online RTI portal for filing Right to Information (RTI) applications. This is a significant development, especially considering that the central government rolled out a similar system long ago. While this move is a welcome step toward improving transparency, there are still several areas where the system could be enhanced to make it more effective.

The J&K Online RTI portal can be accessed at https://rtionline.jk.gov.in.

The launch of the J&K Online RTI portal is undoubtedly a step in the right direction. It brings the process into the digital age, making it more accessible for the citizens of J&K to seek information. This initiative aims to reduce the paperwork, streamline the process, and improve the ease of filing applications, aligning J&K with the central government's push for digitalization.

The portal was launched by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who has been keen on bringing transparency to the system. His efforts in ensuring a more open and accountable government are well-known. In 2009, when he first became Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah implemented the Jammu & Kashmir RTI Act, which was a crucial step toward promoting transparency and accountability in the state. He also introduced other initiatives like the J&K Grievance Cell and the J&K Public Services Guarantee Act, further demonstrating his commitment to improving governance and making the system more citizen-friendly.

Given Omar Abdullah's track record for transparency, we hope that he will re-infuse the lost spirit into the system by making the J&K Online RTI portal even more user-friendly. There is also hope for further improvements, such as expanding the scope of coverage and ensuring timely responses, which would enhance the overall experience for citizens.

One of the notable shortcomings of the J&K Online RTI portal is that it does not include several key public authorities, such as Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and Block Development Officers (BDOs), which are crucial entities in the governance structure. These omissions limit the scope of the RTI process, as citizens cannot file applications for information related to these authorities through the portal.

One of the major drawbacks of the J&K Online RTI portal is its user interface. While it seems to be a direct copy of the central RTI portal, it falls short in terms of mobile optimization. With the majority of users relying on smartphones for internet access, it is crucial that the portal be made mobile-friendly. A seamless experience across devices would ensure that users, especially those in remote areas, can easily navigate the portal without facing any difficulties.

Moreover, an official mobile app for J&K Online RTI applications would be a significant addition. This would further enhance accessibility, allowing users to file applications, track progress, and receive responses with greater convenience.

While the launch of the J&K Online RTI portal is commendable, the true success of the RTI system will depend on how the Public Information Officers (PIOs) respond to these applications. It is crucial that PIOs respect the timelines set by the RTI Act and provide responses in a timely manner. Delays in responses have been a persistent issue, and if the government is serious about fostering a transparent system, this aspect must be prioritized.

The J&K Online RTI portal can only be as effective as the commitment of the PIOs to respond to queries within the stipulated time frame. If this is achieved, it will significantly enhance the transparency of the government and restore faith in the RTI system.