Dhaka, 12 November 2011. Speakers at a seminar held in Dhaka University said that the effective implementation of RTI act can play a vital role in establishing people’s government and true democracy in South Asia. They expressed this opinion during a workshop held in Dhaka University as part of the series of workshops and seminars under the South Asian Social Forum. The forum is being jointly organized by the secretariat of the South Asian Social Forum and the Dhaka University. The title of that workshop was Implementation of RTI Act: Role of NGOs and CSOs. It was organized by RTI Forum, Transparency International Bangladesh, Manusher Jonno Foundation, Reality of Aid Asia Pacific. Eminent columnist Kuldip Nayar of India was the chief guest.
The workshop was moderated by Saheen Anam (RTI Forum/MJF) and Dr. Jagadanada (Hon’ble Information Commissioner, Orrissa, India), Dr. Iftekaruzzaman (TIB), Dr. Sadeka Halim (Hon’ble Information Commissioner, Bangladesh), Rezaul K Chowdhury (Equitybd) were also spoke at the workshop.
Dr. Jagadanada said, RTI act is window for the general public to get the door of rights. He placed some important role of the RTI act in Urissa in reducing the suicide rate of the farmers of that state of India.
Dr. Iftekaruzzaman said, RTI Act of Bangladesh is definitely a good law, but the need is to ensure its implementation.
Rezaul K Chowdhury placed some example of success of his organization by ensuring open information to all.
Dr. Sadeka Halim emphasized on proper training for the government officials on RTI act.
Kuldip Nayar expressed his hope to get regional act on Right to Information which will provide opportunity to all the people of this region to seek information to any other country.
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