Team Goemkarponn
MAJORDA: Custodio Faria, the Panchayat Secretary of Majorda-Utorda-Calata Village Panchayat, was fined Rs 22,500 by the Goa State Information Commission (GSIC) in a historic decision for not providing information within the legally required timeframes set forth by the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
Accountability is emphasized by the Commission’s order, which requires the Directorate of Panchayats to produce a compliance report within two working days and to collect the penalty within ten days of receiving it. It has also stipulated that Faria must pay for any legal fees she incurs in this case herself rather than using public funds.
In order to improve future adherence to RTI duties, the GSIC further emphasized the necessity of appropriate training and sensitization of the Directorate of Panchayats’ first appellate authorities.
The fine comes after Panchayat member Sharlet Fernandes complained that Faria had not provided the information that was required in an RTI application that was submitted in February 2023. According to Fernandes, the Panchayat Secretary disregarded his duties, which prompted the GSIC to step in.
This case highlights the vital function of the RTI Act in guaranteeing public access and establishes a strong precedent for demanding accountability and transparency in municipal governance.
