Mizoram Governor Leads Celebration of RTI Week 2026

Aizawl, the 8th October, 2026: Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), today graced the celebration of Right to Information (RTI) Week 2026 organised by the Mizoram Information Commission (MIC) at the Assembly Annexe Conference Hall in Aizawl as the Chief Guest.

In his address, the Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh described the Right to Information as a cornerstone for establishing transparent, accountable and participatory governance. He noted that the RTI Act, 2005 has empowered citizens to seek information, understand government processes and hold public authorities accountable, thereby strengthening the relationship between citizens and the government. Welcoming the inclusion of Village Councils and Local Councils within the RTI framework, he said this was an important step towards building accountability closer to the people, adding that transparency must not remain confined to government offices.

The Governor appreciated the Mizoram Information Commission, established on 29 June 2006, for its dedicated efforts in implementing the RTI Act, 2005. He observed that the substantial number of RTI applications, appeals and complaints received over the years reflected the people’s growing awareness of their democratic rights. He also welcomed the Commission’s initiatives to expand digital access to RTI and expressed hope that the RTI Online Version 2.0, launched on 5 October 2026, would be utilised effectively.

Emphasising the importance of proactive disclosure under Section 4 of the RTI Act, the Governor stated, “The spirit of the law is not merely to answer questions after an RTI application is filed. Public authorities should, as far as possible, place relevant information in the public domain. Transparency should become a normal feature of administration, rather than an exception.”

He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of RTI activists in ensuring the successful implementation of the Act, “RTI should not be viewed as an instrument of confrontation. It should serve as a bridge between the administration and the people, helping to strengthen trust, improve public services and promote accountability,” he said. Highlighting the need for awareness, accessibility and proactive transparency during RTI Week, the Governor urged everyone to work together to build a governance system in which transparency is the norm, accountability is a responsibility and citizens are active and informed participants in democracy.

Dr. Lalzirmawia Chhangte, State Information Commissioner, delivered the keynote address and welcomed the gathering. Two RTI practitioners, Mr. K. Lalngaizuala of East Lungdar and Mr. Adam Saprinsanga Halliday of Chaltlang, shared their experiences and suggestions for improvement in the implementation of RTI. Mrs. Lily, Secretary of the MIC, proposed the vote of thanks and concluded the programme.

During the event, prizes were awarded to the winners of the RTI slogan-writing competition for college students:

1st Place: Zonunfela, Department of Education (5th Semester), Government Hrangbana College (Rs 5,000 + Certificate)  

Slogan: “In secret, democracy dies. In transparency, democracy thrives. Seek the truth, expose corruption and demand justice through ‘Right to Information’.”

2nd Place: F. Lalthanzuala, Department of Public Administration (1st Semester), Pachhunga University College (Rs 4,000 + Certificate)  

Slogan: “Right to Information brings transparency to light, to end corruptions of our nation, we must know our right.”

3rd Place: Lalrinnunga, B.Com (5th Semester), Government Aizawl College (Rs 3,000 + Certificate)  

Slogan: "Piallei khat theuha piang hringmi tan hriat thiang leh thiang lo a awm bik dawn em ni? RTI dan hmanga hriatna hi mitin dikna a ni."

Source & Wire Service: Prasar Bharati SHABD (DD / Akashvani News)