RTI Workshop conducted for senior citizens

Press Release

A Right To Information Workshop was held for the senior citizens of chennai by the Probus Club of Chennai (sponsored by Rotary Club of Madras), an Association of Retired Professionals, Businessmen, Govt. servants and others, on Jan 27, 2007. About 100 senior citizens participated in the workshop. Dr. (Mrs) Balambal, President of Probus Club of Chennai and other Office Bearers were present.

Kris Dev an ICT & e-Gov Consultant and RTI Activist, Chennai (Ph: 98 408 52132) made a powerpoint presentation on RTI Act 2005 and how it can be used by senior citizens to ensure their Fundamental Rights, as enshrined in the Constitution of India, based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

There was active participation from all the participants. Live success and failure cases were presented. Senior citizens were encouraged to raise their doubts. Many sought advise on the procedure for filing RTI applications.

The senior citizens felt harrased to ascertain the designation of the PIO and in whose favour the RTI application fees has to be made out. The bank charges for a Rs. 10.00 DD costs Rs. 30.00 and worst still, cancelling a wrong DD costs Rs. 100.00. It was felt, the Govt. needs to simplify this and a revenue stamp pasted on the application and sent to PIO of the Public Authority should be accepted.

A few photos taken on the occassion are attached.

Press release made by:
Dr. (Mrs) V. Balambal, President, Probus Club of Chennai. 159, 94th Street, 15th Sector, K.K. Nagar, Chennai-78. Ph: 2483 8806.

Press release sent by:
Kris Dev, RTI Activist. B4, Ashok Suparna, 27/12, 3rd main Road, Kasturiba nagar, Adyar, Chennai-600020, Chennai. Ph: 98 408 52132.