Delhi High Court Directs Centre to Frame Modern RTI Rules on PIL Filed by Advocate Aditya Chauhan

In a significant development aimed at strengthening digital transparency, the Delhi High Court has directed the Central Government to frame updated rules for providing information under the Right to Information Act, 2005 (RTI Act) through modern electronic modes such as email and pen drives. The order was passed while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Advocate Aditya Chauhan, who raised concerns that despite the RTI Act permitting electronic dissemination of information, the RTI Rules still refer to outdated media like diskettes and floppy disks. Why the Court Issued These Directions The Court observed that the outdated rules have created serious practical difficulties for both RTI applicants and Public Information Officers (PIOs), resulting in inconsistent practices across departments. Although Sections 2(j), 4(4) and 7(9) of the RTI Act already allow electronic modes of delivery, the Central Government has not updated the Rules to align with technological advancements. The Bench termed the absence of modern provisions a “serious gap” in the RTI framework. Court’s Key Observations The High Court emphasized: Digital delivery of information is essential for accessibility. Applicants from remote regions, persons with disabilities, and citizens unable to visit government offices face unnecessary hardship due to outdated rules. Modern modes such as email, pen drive, or any electronic medium must be formally included in the rules. The Government must also examine modern fee-payment methods, including UPI and online banking. The Court directed the Centre to create a structured, rule-based framework to address these gaps. Issues Raised in the PIL by Advocate Aditya Chauhan In his petition, Advocate Aditya Chauhan argued that: The RTI Act is technologically neutral, but the RTI Rules (2012) still mention obsolete devices. Several PIOs refuse to provide information electronically due to lack of updated rules. This results in delays, unnecessary expenses, and discourages citizens from seeking information. Many countries have already fully adopted digital information systems, and India must not lag behind. The PIL highlighted that the current rules contradict the spirit of the RTI Act, which aims to make governance transparent, efficient, and accessible. Other Public-Interest Matters Filed by Advocate Aditya Chauhan This PIL is part of a broader series of public-interest actions initiated by Advocate Aditya Chauhan. He has previously approached the Delhi High Court in matters such as: Ensuring food availability for persons kept in police stations during detention or investigation. Challenging the inaction of authorities against illegal bootlegging, despite multiple complaints to SHO, DCP, CP, and even the Lieutenant Governor. These interventions reflect recurring administrative gaps and the need for stronger accountability mechanisms. Significance of the Court’s Direction Legal experts believe this ruling will have long-term impact on the RTI regime. Once implemented, the updated rules are expected to: Reduce delays caused by physical transfer of documents Lower costs for applicants Promote digital governance and streamlined functioning Enhance uniformity across departments Bring India’s transparency framework closer to global standards After the Centre notifies the revised rules, RTI applicants may soon receive information directly via email or portable electronic devices, marking a major shift in how transparency laws operate.