HR

Hrishikesh RajendraAIR 61

Question 4(b)GS2GS2

The right to information (RTI) and the right to privacy (RTP) complement each other in holding the government accountable to the people, however, in cases of conflict, they can be reconciled keeping public interest in mind. Discuss.

Open scan (p.17)

Main Body

Right to Information (RTI) and Right to Privacy (RTP) are both defined fundamental rights as per Supreme Court.

Complement one another

1Right to Information empowers the citizens regarding government decisions and their impact.
2Ensures public fund allocation & expenditure is as per democratic mandate. eg: recent criticism of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao scheme.
3RTP ensures government does not share citizens' information
4RTP also prevents discrimination by government based on one's caste, race or even choice.

Conflict

1RTI increases public access to information while RTP restricts it.
2Government can use RTP as ground for non-disclosure.

During such conflicts, larger public interests, public morality as well as social implications must be the basis for resolution.

119 words9 paragraphs

Conclusion

During such conflicts, larger public interests, public morality as well as social implications must be the basis for resolution.

19 words

Examiner score
0.9/10

Open original scan

Page 17

Topper

Hrishikesh Rajendra

AIR 61

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Indian Constitution - Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure

Right to Privacy and Article 21

RTI and Privacy - Complementarity and Conflict

Writing Stats

138

Total words

9

Paragraphs

analytical

Tone