Ensure Independent and Impartial Information Commission, Study Reveals Gaps

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 30, 2026

A study has revealed that despite high public demand for information under the RTI Act, only a small fraction of people have used the mechanism due to low awareness and administrative hurdles. The findings highlight the urgent need to improve training for officers, enhance public education, and strengthen the Information Commission to ensure better transparency and enforcement.

A recent study titled "Reality Check and Pathways for Breakthrough" has highlighted significant shortcomings in public access to information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The report reveals a large disparity between the demand for information and actual usage of the RTI mechanism, primarily due to low awareness and procedural difficulties.

According to the findings, although approximately 72.4 percent of the population expressed a desire to obtain information, only 4.6 percent had ever submitted an RTI application. General awareness of the RTI Act stands at just 10.5 percent, with a mere 2 percent familiar with the procedures required to file requests. This gap indicates a widespread lack of knowledge on the rights and processes that enable information access.

On the administrative side, the report found that around 64 percent of designated officers (DOs) tasked with processing RTI requests have never handled an application. Training deficiencies were notable, with only 35 percent of these officers fully understanding how to provide information, and just 49 percent having received any relevant instruction. Additionally, more than half—55 percent—reported not receiving formal appointment letters or clear job descriptions for their RTI responsibilities, raising concerns about role clarity and accountability.

Barrister Sara Hossain of the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST) underscored the critical role civil society must play in addressing these challenges. She pointed out that the Information Commission faces compliance issues, with approximately 38 percent of its decisions going unimplemented. Hossain advocated for increased legal support and court interventions to enforce the commission’s rulings effectively.

The findings were discussed during a session moderated by the Management and Resources Development Initiative. Participants included government officials and representatives from advocacy organizations, who collectively stressed the need to establish a more empowered, impartial, and operational Information Commission. The panel emphasized that strengthening institutional capacity and raising public awareness are essential steps to fulfilling the RTI Act’s promise of transparency and accountability.

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